Aquaculture Industry Targets Expansion with Training

Focused on expanding the aquaculture industry in the Coast of Bays and Green Bay Regions, the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) is launching professional development training for local finfish and shellfish aquaculturists.

The training, supported by a $163,896 investment from the Provincial Government, will be delivered by instructors from the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University (MI). Beginning in the Bay d'Espoir area in February, the training sessions will cover labour issues, safety, workforce skill development, and opportunities for expansion.

"Newfoundland and Labrador's aquaculture is an industry of tremendous potential," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Developing the workforce and introducing initiatives that support industry competitiveness and expansion is a key step in creating new business and employment opportunities. I am confident that with continued education and collaboration, the province's aquaculture industry will realize its fullest potential and position itself as a world leader."

Developed in partnership with industry stakeholders and MI, NAIA anticipates 30 sessions being held over a three-year period. In the first year, up to 12 sessions will be held in the two regions and focus on best practices and opportunities for salmonid and mussel farming.

"With exports valued at $63 million in 2008, Newfoundland and Labrador's aquaculture industry has experienced substantial growth, increasing its production by nearly 40 per cent from 2007 to 2008," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. "The Provincial Government is committed to giving the industry the tools it needs so that it can continue to succeed on the international stage."

Formed in 1993, NAIA is a non-profit organization with a mission to assist the aquaculture industry in achieving its full potential. It delivers programs and services to its members to attain excellence in safety, quality, environmental sustainability, and profitability.

"The aquaculture industry is contributing to the long-term sustainability of our province's rural areas," Cyr Couturier, Executive Director, NAIA. "The Provincial Government's support in this project to maintain and provide skills to advance local industry is essential. Greater training will enable the sector to compete in the global marketplace while providing advanced training in a technologically advanced industry that produces high-quality, nutritious, and environmentally sustainable food."

This initiative was funded with a $137,077 investment from the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, and $26,819 from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

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2010 02 15                                                  10:00 a.m.