Research on shrimp and sea cucumber to be initiated in Western region

Funding for resource surveys and exploratory fishing programs in the Western region of the province could ultimately help grow the province�s fishery, says Trevor Taylor, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

The province is investing $47,500 in a sea cucumber identification survey in the Strait of Belle Isle and Hare Bay. Sea cucumber is a underutilized species of fish that is a tasty delicacy in many parts of Asia, where it is considered to be an aphrodisiac, and is used in soups. The presence of sea cucumber in the Strait of Belle Isle has been known for years due to the species being harvested as a �nuisance� catch in the Icelandic scallop fishery. Past surveys have found encouraging catch rates in areas adjacent to the Northern Peninsula.

"Sea cucumber is an emerging species that may have the potential to help us grow the province�s fishery," said Minister Taylor. "If we want to develop sea cucumber in the Strait of Belle Isle and Hare Bay, we need more information about the state of the resources. This research will help us address that pickle by providing us with insights into the viability of a sea cucumber fishery in areas along the Northern Peninsula."

A further allocation of $15,000 has also been made to the exploratory fishing of panel shrimp pots. The price received for shrimp generally increases with the size of the shrimp. This project will assess whether a new design of shrimp pot � one that is used in Europe and allows smaller shrimp to escape � is viable in the waters of Newfoundland and Labrador. The partnering initiative will involve St. Anthony Basin Resources Inc. (SABRI). A successful project could lead to a fishery that is environmentally friendly, provide size selected shrimp, and supply markets with a very high quality product.

"Larger shrimp can result in sizeable returns for our province�s harvesters and processors," added the minister. "New shrimp pots are a big success in Europe. We are going to see if they are adaptable to Newfoundland and Labrador waters."

One of the provincial government�s priorities is economic growth and job creation, particularly in rural areas. Programming to diversify the fishing industry from its traditional dependence on groundfish is one innovative and creative approach. The funding supports areas such as quality enhancement, secondary processing, and market development.

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

2004 07 07                                      11:40 a.m.