Minister declares February 9-15 Aquaculture Week in province

Trevor Taylor, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, has signed a declaration pronouncing February 9-15 as Aquaculture Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The declaration was signed with the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) in recognition of the considerable economic growth opportunities associated with aquaculture. The NAIA has a number of events planned to celebrate the week, including its conference at the Holiday Inn that runs until Tuesday. Minister Taylor will be the keynote speaker at Monday night�s aquaculture banquet.

"There is considerable optimism about aquaculture in our province," said Minister Taylor. "Our government sees aquaculture as an economic growth opportunity for coastal communities, and with good reason. This declaration is one step towards increasing public awareness of the industry�s potential."

Media contact: Alex Marland, Communications, (709) 729-3733

2004 02 09                                        11:35 a.m.