February 6, 1996
(Fisheries, Food and Agriculture)
The following is being distributed at the request of
Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association:
NAIA responds to establishment of $20 million
fund for aquaculture
The Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association responded
today to Premier Brian Tobin's announcement of the establishment
of a $20 million fund for aquaculture under the Economic Renewal
Program.
According to the NAIA's executive director Marc Kielley:
"Industry is extremely pleased with the news of this
announcement. This is very positive and should provide a
significant boost for aquaculture development. Mr. Kielley also
pointed out: "Where this is a five year funding agreement
industry is now in a position to prepare a long term strategic
course of action to guide aquaculture development into the next
decade. This program will enable the aquaculture industry to
accelerate development by providing the much needed funding to
address such critical success factors as infrastructure
requirements, research and development, extension support
services, human resource development and marketing.
"Aquaculture industry began a little more than 10 years
ago and we are now beginning to see the fruits of the efforts by
our aquaculture entrepreneurs. In 1995, over 70 commercially
licensed aquaculture farms in the province produced an estimate
1,280 tonnes of salmon, steelhead trout, mussels, scallops and
arctic char valued at more than $5 million. The future for the
aquaculture industry is highly promising. The industry is now
entering a growth phase where production is expected to rise
dramatically over the next two to three years and well into the
future. With this growth important new jobs will be created in
many rural and coastal communities where limited opportunities
exist. Additional new employment opportunities will also be
created in the supply and service sector."
The Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association intends to
work closely with government to target this funding where it will
have a positive economic impact and will ensure a sustainable
aquaculture industry in Newfoundland.
Contact: March Kielley, Executive Director, Newfoundland
Aquaculture Industry Associatin, (709) 754-2854.
|