February 6, 1998
(Fisheries and Aquaculture)

Policy announced for issuing cod farming licences

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister John Efford has announced his department's policy for issuing new cod farming licences in 1998.

"Pilot cod farming projects conducted last year at seven sites had very positive results. As cod farming develops as a commercially viable venture, a policy for issuing new licences is necessary to ensure that this new aquaculture sector develops in an orderly fashion," he said.

Individuals and companies who now hold cod farming licences will continue to hold them, and will be eligible to purchase cod from licenced cod trap harvesters.

For issuing new licences, the following policy applies:

- New aquaculture licences for cod aquaculture or growout will be issued only to licenced cod trap harvesters.
- For new entrants in cod farming in 1998, only 20 developmental licences will be issued, with priority given to harvesters in areas where a limited cod trap fishery may be undertaken
- Licences will be issued based on receipt of a licence application from cod trap harvesters who:

(1) have access to cod;
(2) have made arrangements to secure an adequate supply of feed;
(3) have the ability to provide equipment and cages necessary for aquaculture;
(4) agree to participate in a farmed cod marketing program in 1998.

Mr. Efford said the number of new developmental licences that may be issued is limited to 20 this year. These will be in addition to the 30 issued previously. First priority for new licences will be given to cod trap harvesters in those zones where cod trap fisheries are pursued. However, if fewer than 20 applications are received from harvesters in those zones, consideration will be given to applications from harvesters licensed for cod trap fishing in other zones.

All applications for new licences, along with proposals for a cod farming operation, must be postmarked no later than February 28 to ensure that a licence is approved by mid-May. Applications postmarked later than February 28 will not be considered.

Contact: Josephine Cheeseman, Communications, (709) 729-3733.

Industry contact for further information or to request a cod farming licence application: Bob Hoyles, Aquaculture Branch (709) 729-3040.