Fisheries and Aquaculture
July 16, 2014
Advancing Rural Economic Growth Through Infrastructure Investment
New Aquaculture Wharf in Milltown Made Possible with $4 Million Investment
Another community on the Coast of Bays will benefit from enhanced aquaculture infrastructure with the announcement of $4 million from the Provincial Government to construct an aquaculture inflow wharf in the community of Milltown. The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, announced the funding today, which will develop the fourth inflow wharf in the region. These wharves are used exclusively by the aquaculture industry to reduce the possibility of cross contamination by other vessels.
“This government has worked closely with the provincial aquaculture industry to create infrastructure that ensures our province leads the country in the areas of biosecurity and sustainable aquaculture practices. With this investment of $4 million, we are building on the wharf infrastructure we have already created in communities like Harbour Breton, Hermitage, and Pool’s Cove, and positioning the aquaculture industry for more of the tremendous success it has already achieved.”
- The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture
The wharf in Milltown will be used specifically by operations that farm steelhead trout, which contributes significantly to the province’s finfish aquaculture activity.
“The Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association and its members greatly appreciate the Provincial Government’s commitment to providing the infrastructure necessary for the long-term development of the industry. Our operators continue to achieve national and international certifications for using best practices in aquaculture, and infrastructure investments like this help make those achievements possible.”
- Miranda Pryor, Executive Director, Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association
In total, $8.6 million has been allocated to advance aquaculture infrastructure projects in the Coast of Bays since 2013.
“Aquaculture has completely revitalized the economic well-being of communities throughout the Coast of Bays, and increased infrastructure provides a solid foundation to build on that success. This government believes in developing opportunities in rural areas and supporting industrial development, and this investment is further evidence of our plan to generate wealth in all areas of the province.”
- Tracey Perry, MHA for Fortune Bay-Cape La Hune
The Provincial Government’s overall investment to date in biosecure wharf infrastructure currently stands at $14 million, which in turn supported salmonid production valued at $182 million last year.
QUICK FACTS
- Minister Keith Hutchings announced $4 million today to construct a biosecure aquaculture wharf in the community of Milltown.
- The 45-metre wharf is expected to be completed for use next year.
- In addition to investments in wharf infrastructure, the Provincial Government constructed a $9 million state-of-the-art aquatic animal health diagnostic laboratory and development centre in St. Alban’s to help set the standard for sustainable aquaculture practices in Canada.
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Media contacts: Jason Card Director of Communications Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture 709-729-3733, 699-0470 jasoncard@gov.nl.ca | Donna Ivey Communications Manager Government Members Office 709-729-3551 donnaivey@gov.nl.ca |
| Miranda Pryor Executive Director Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association 709-754-2854 miranda@naia.ca |
2014 07 16 1:35 p.m.