In recognition of the tremendous growth potential of the aquaculture industry in Newfoundland and Labrador, and to celebrate the successes of the past year, the week of February 19-23 has been declared Aquaculture Week in the province.

The Honourable Tom Rideout, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, said the growth of the aquaculture sector deserves to be recognized. "Aquaculture continues to be a flagship sector within our province," said Minister Rideout. "It has grown dramatically in recent years, with the assistance of strategic funding initiatives by our government and smart choices by industry representatives. It is truly fitting that we take the time to celebrate these successes."

A declaration was signed this morning with representatives of the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) and Harry Harding, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, on behalf of Minister Rideout.

Minister Rideout noted that particular success has been achieved within the past twelve months. These include an unprecedented investment in Budget 2006 of nearly $6 million for the aquaculture industry, as well as the announcement by Cooke Aquaculture that it will undertake the single largest aquaculture project in Canada on the Connaigre Peninsula. A $10 million investment from the Provincial Government facilitated this announcement. Furthermore, mussel production is estimated at 3,300 MT for 2006, which is over and above that of the 3,157 MT produced in 2005, and salmonid production is estimated at 5,600 MT for 2006 which marks an increase of approximately 600 MT over the production value of 5,000 MT in 2005.

"These achievements represent tremendous growth," said Minister Rideout. "Our government has proven our commitment to the aquaculture industry on numerous occasions and we will continue to invest strategically into the sector in order to make the most of the opportunities it can provide for this province."

A number of activities are planned to celebrate Aquaculture Week. These include an open house at Hampden Hall of the Marine Institute that will aim to educate the general public about the industry. Furthermore, NAIA�s Annual General Meeting and Trade Show will take place on Thursday and Friday in St. John�s. Minister Rideout will be the guest speaker at the banquet on Thursday night.

"I am personally looking forward to attending NAIA�s conference and speaking at the banquet," said Minister Rideout, "and I encourage everyone to take part in the various activities during the week."

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Media contact:
Lori Lee Oates
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-3733, 690-8403
oatesll@gov.nl.ca

2007 02 19                                                     11:55 a.m.