Ministerial Statement – Attending the Seafood Expo North America 2018

  • Executive Council

March 15, 2018

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources:


Mr. Speaker, the power and presence of Newfoundland and Labrador’s fish and seafood industry was on display at the 2018 Boston Seafood show. From March 11 to 13, the event attracted over 22,000 industry representatives from more than 120 countries.

I saw first-hand how our industry is meeting and exceeding the expectations of a global marketplace that puts a premium on value, quality and food security. We are emerging as leaders in a fiercely competitive world.

Mr. Speaker, our harvesters, processors and fishing industry suppliers are pleased with our government’s leadership as we work with industry players to maximize the success of our seafood industry.

Newfoundland and Labrador night was one of the hottest tickets in Boston with companies scrambling for access. The positive feedback I received started there and was constant during the event.

Industry associations feel a part of this march forward. The work of our Fisheries Advisory Council has already proven relevant to the needs of the industry.

Mr. Speaker, the industry was very impressed with our renewed policy direction in promoting greater quality control and assurance, expanding market access, industry promotion and innovation.

The provincial industry told me our advocacy on their behalf is like no other they have seen in years, and they are grateful.

Mr. Speaker, the $100 million Atlantic Fisheries Fund is already improving outcomes for our fish harvesters, processors and communities.

Presenting our 2017 Seafood Industry Year in Review, I was proud to inform the world that 2017 was the third consecutive year our export value exceeded $1 billion. By maintaining close contact with industry players, we will keep the value high, and continue to build on Newfoundland and Labrador’s reputation as a provider of premium seafood products to the world.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker

2018 03 15 1:50 pm