The Government of Canada and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador fund projects to boost sustainability in the fish and seafood sector

ST. JOHN'S, Dec. 5, 2018 /CNW/ - With the longest coastline in the world, Canada's coastal communities rely on the fishing industry as an integral contributor to local and regional economies. This is why the Government of Canada and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador today announced funding support to the fish and seafood sectors through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund.

The funding?a total contribution of more than $18 million?will see investments and innovation in harvesting and handling technologies, seafood processing automation and modernization, and sustainable aquaculture production. The funding will also support fisheries research to increase our understanding of the impact of climate change on the productivity of our fisheries. More specifically we are making investments in:

Harvesting Sector ? More than $3.7 million for 54 projects throughout the province, targeting all three cod stocks in Newfoundland and Labrador that support commercial and stewardship fisheries. Projects are focused on improving quality of landings through adoption of harvesting and on-board handling technologies for inshore groundfish fisheries.

Processing Sector ? Over $4.6 million for five projects throughout the province.  Projects focus on cutting-edge technology, automation, and improving quality and productivity in the processing sector.

Aquaculture Sector ? More than $1.5 million for four projects focused on improved technology and increasing aquaculture research to improve sustainability.

Science Partnerships ? Over $4.3 million for a five-year scientific research project focused on filling key knowledge gaps to improve stock assessments, contribute to fisheries certification, and inform strategies for managing the impacts of climate and productivity changes.

Innovation/Research and Development - $4.5 million for a multi-year applied research and development project focused on driving innovation in the seafood sector by linking the demands of industry to the capacities of universities.

Funding these projects will increase the effectiveness, quality and sustainability of the fish and seafood sector in Newfoundland and Labrador, resulting in a positive impact on local economies and creating jobs. The contribution derives from the $400 million Atlantic Fisheries Fund, jointly funded by the federal and provincial governments, and focuses on increasing opportunities and market value for sustainably sourced, high-quality fish and seafood products from Atlantic Canada.

The Atlantic Fisheries Fund will continue to invest in projects over the seven-year life of the program. Seafood sector participants including commercial fish harvesters, seafood processors and the aquaculture industry, Indigenous groups, academia and research institutions, and industry organizations may apply.

Eligible projects must focus on:

• Innovation ? to support research and development of new innovations that contribute to sustainability of the fish and seafood sector, and to create partnerships and networks that aim to promote and encourage innovations in the sector;
• Infrastructure ? to adopt or adapt new technologies, processes, or equipment to improve the productivity and sustainability of the fish and seafood sector;
• Science Partnerships ? fisheries and aquaculture industry based partnerships with researchers to enhance knowledge and understanding of the impacts of climate change is having on our ocean and on the harvesting and aquaculture industries.

Quotes

"This new funding means more innovation and jobs for communities right across Newfoundland. I am pleased that we are working with businesses and communities to grow our fisheries and ensure that they remain healthy for future generations."

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

"The Atlantic Fisheries Fund is creating new opportunities for provincial producers of sustainably sourced, high-quality fish and seafood products. This latest round of investments provides important financial support to harvesters, processors, aquaculture operations, academia and other stakeholders throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, and reaffirms the Federal Government's recognition of the important contribution the fishing and aquaculture industry plays in supporting and sustaining many rural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador."

The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

"Today's announcement sends a clear message to our fishing industry ? the sector in Newfoundland and Labrador is moving ahead and we are positioning the industry to respond to evolving and growing demands of consumers around the world. Enhancing the provincial fishing sector is a key component of our Way Forward strategy. We will continue to work with the federal government and industry stakeholders as we secure maximum benefits for the people and communities in Newfoundland and Labrador who rely on the fishery for their livelihood."

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources

Quick Facts

• The Atlantic Fisheries Fund will invest over $400 million over seven years to support Canada's fish and seafood sector.
• The federal government will provide 70% of the funding, with 30% coming from the Atlantic provinces.
• The fund aims to help Canada's seafood sector transition to meet growing market demands for products that are high quality, value-added, and sustainably sourced.

Related Products:

• Backgrounder

Associated Links

• Atlantic Fisheries Fund home page: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/initiatives/fish-fund-atlantic-fonds-peche/index-eng.html
• Atlantic Fisheries Fund application: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/initiatives/fish-fund-atlantic-fonds-peche/index-eng.html
• Atlantic Growth Strategy: http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/ags-sca/Eng/atlantic-growth.html
• Toll-free program contact: 1-844-795-9718

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SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada