Fisheries and Aquaculture
January 19, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Vaughn Granter, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture:

Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program Approaching 300 Projects

I rise in this Honourable House to note our government's commitment to supporting innovation in the provincial seafood sector through our Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program. Originally launched in 2007, this program will soon reach the significant milestone of having supported 300 research and development projects.

Mr. Speaker, research and development plays a key role in helping any industry adapt to changing conditions and stay competitive in the marketplace. The Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program supports new developments in the areas of harvesting, fish farming, processing, and marketing by providing funding that fosters innovation among industry players.

To date, more than 270 research and development projects have been made possible through the Provincial Government's commitment of $16 million to the program. This funding has helped industry pursue valuable research, often in partnership with organizations like the Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation and the Marine Institute.

Mr. Speaker, this government's support of research and development in the seafood industry enhances job opportunities, promotes economic growth, and provides brighter futures for families and communities throughout the province.

Examples of initiatives that have received Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities funding include: the development shrimp trawls that are more energy efficient and have less contact with the seabed; research into new processing technology that can increase product yield, product quality, and energy efficiency; and the pursuit of new marketing initiatives that are helping the provincial aquaculture industry build new clientele in various parts of the world, and helping the sealing industry pursue clients in Asia.

Mr. Speaker, the provincial seafood industry has generated $1 billion annually for the past several years, and is a key driver of the economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. The industry is subject to change, challenge, and international competition on a continuous basis, and our government continues to help industry adapt and succeed with supports like the Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program.

As a government, we look forward to continued collaboration with industry that builds on the strong reputation that Newfoundland and Labrador seafood already enjoys on the world stage.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

2015 01 19                              1:50 p.m.