Windsor-Springdale to benefit from Aquaculture Innovation Program

Tom Rideout, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today reiterated government�s commitment to the seafood sector and rural regions of Newfoundland and Labrador with an announcement of nearly $20,000 for aquaculture initiatives in Windsor-Springdale District.

"Aquaculture is the best kept secret in Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Rideout. "Only 10 per cent of this province�s potential for aquaculture development has been tapped and we have most of the only remaining sites suitable for aquaculture development in Canada. Our government remains committed to providing the tools that are necessary to assist in unleashing this enormous potential.

"To that end," continued the minister, "government is pleased to support the aquaculture sector through programs aimed at assisting its development."

Under the Aquaculture Innovation Program, Badger Bay Mussels Farms Limited will receive $8,500 to assist with the acquisition of a harvest seed stripper. This will improve the efficiency and profitability of the mussel growing operation by decreasing the amount of time needed to strip seed from mussel lines.

B & D Mussel Farms Limited will receive $11,300 to assist with the acquisition of double-eyed floats. This equipment will provide greater stability for the mussels as they grow resulting in an increase in the amount of product harvested by the operation.

"The funding awarded to these companies will help increase the efficiency of the mussel operations of both companies," said the minister.

The Aquaculture Innovation Program assists aquaculture companies to evaluate, develop and adopt new technologies that reduce production costs, improve efficiencies and increase product quality.

Windsor-Springdale MHA Ray Hunter said, "I am extremely pleased that this funding has been provided to help expand the operations of two mussel farms in my district. The fact that these operations are looking to increase their growing and harvesting capacity speaks to the health of this growing industry. The aquaculture industry holds great potential for rural economies in Newfoundland and Labrador, and I am pleased that our government has been making strategic decisions and investments to aid in its continued development."

"Our government allocated $4.2 million for the aquaculture industry in Budget 2006, more than doubling last year�s investments," said Minister Rideout. "We are dedicated to the sustainability of rural Newfoundland and Labrador and we are demonstrating this through our initiatives in the aquaculture industry."

In Budget 2006, $255,000 was allocated for initiatives under the Aquaculture Innovation Program.

"We are anticipating a large expansion in the aquaculture industry within this province," said Minister Rideout. "We plan to maximize the opportunities it presents for the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, particularly those residing in rural communities."

Media contact: Lori Lee Oates, ABC, Communications, (709) 729-3733, 690-8403

2006 06 19                                          10:15 a.m.