Andrew Chaulk of Lewisporte is the recipient of the 2009 Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture scholarship. The Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, presented the scholarship to Andrew today. The scholarship was developed to encourage students who are entering post-secondary studies to increase their awareness of the province�s fishing and aquaculture industries.

"My department continues to actively increase awareness among the province�s youth of both our farmed and wild fishery," said Minister Hedderson. "I congratulate Andrew for taking on the challenge of learning more of about these industries and winning this award. I also congratulate him on his many other accomplishments. He is obviously a very active student and member of his community."

Those applying for the scholarship were required to write an essay of up to 2,500 words that described what they felt to be the biggest issue facing our province�s fishing or aquaculture industries. They were also challenged to provide possible solutions.

Andrew is a graduate of Lewisporte Colligate who has demonstrated an excellent record of academic achievement, as well as involvement in both his school and community. He has been involved with the scouting movement, minor hockey, his school�s concert and jazz bands and his senior graduation planning committee. He has been accepted to the Faculty of Engineering at Memorial University of Newfoundland and plans to use his engineering degree to work in this province.

"I am very pleased to join with Andrew and his family in celebrating this great accomplishment," said Wade Verge, MHA for Lewisporte. "I wish him much success as he pursues his future goals."

Andrew�s essay on the province�s fishing and aquaculture industries addressed such issues as the cod moratorium, education, fisheries science and development of the province�s aquaculture industry.

The scholarship is funded through the department�s Sustainable Fisheries and Oceans Policy Division, which participates in and provides input into fisheries and science management, and oceans policy development processes, within the province.

Photo #1: The Honourable Tom Hedderson Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, presents Andrew Chaulk of Lewisporte with the second annual Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture scholarship.

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