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May 25, 1998
(Fisheries and Aquaculture)


The following statement was issued today by John Efford, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Diversification efforts pay off for Red Bay

The diversification of the fishery has been the focus of many research and development efforts undertaken by both the provincial and federal governments for some time. This is especially important for Labrador, where a shortage of raw material for fish plants has long been a chronic problem.

I am happy to inform the House today that for the first time in seven years the fish plant in Red Bay will be back in operation on June 1, and that 70 direct and indirect jobs will be created in the harvesting and processing of sea urchins. This is a partnership between the Labrador Fishermen's Union Shrimp Company and Labrador Gem Seafoods.

It is encouraging to know that the majority of the workers are young Labradorians who are determined to stay and make a living in their home region. Both divers and plant workers have received special training for the harvesting and processing of sea urchins.

This is also a good example of encouraging results of development work that has been undertaken by both government and industry.

Markets for sea urchin roe from the Red Bay operation have been confirmed with the assistance of Bell Island Ventures, one of the leading producers of sea urchin roe on the Island. Labrador Gem Seafoods anticipates that it will produce quality sea urchin roe for up to six months each year.

This will also lead to further opportunities for Labradorians. The Shrimp Company and Gem Seafoods also plan to extend the business into Mary's Harbour and Cartwright in September. At that time, another 200 new jobs will be created in this emerging fishery.

I am proud of the accomplishments in the sea urchin sector of our fishery. Six years ago, we had virtually no sea urchin fishery. This year, we have upwards of 200 harvesters, with approximately another 200 employed processing roe at Winterton, Glovertown, Bell Island, Wareham and Grand Bank. As I have already indicated, the Red Bay operation coming will bring additional employment benefits. Furthermore, this activity in Labrador will complement Island operations by extending the overall harvesting and processing season for sea urchins in the province.

The province is committed to further development of our fishery as a multi-species industry that is not reliant on two or three species. We are also working to further develop markets in key areas such as Japan where around 450 species of fish and seafood are available at auctions. Complemented by our quality assurance initiatives, our diversification efforts will pay big dividends for the long term benefit of our fishery. This is critical in rural areas that have traditionally relied on marine resources for their livelihoods.

1998 05 25                        2:55 p.m.


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