The next phase of the Government of Canada’s public engagement on the first-ever Aquaculture Act has been launched by Bernadette Jordan, the minister of fisheries, oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard.
“The women and men in Canada’s aquaculture sector have been feeding Canadians and the world for years—and as the industry grows, we need to ensure the rules and regulations keep up with its growth,” said Jordan.
“This Act will provide more certainty, improve the regulatory regime across the country, and will help position Canada as a global leader in sustainable, high-quality, aquaculture products,” added Jordan. “I look forward to hearing from Canadians, provincial and territorial partners, Indigenous peoples, industry, and key stakeholders as we chart this new path forward together.”
A discussion paper providing background on aquaculture in Canada, rationale for the proposed legislation and an overview of the elements proposed for the new Act, is now available online with key questions to guide feedback to the Government on this important initiative.
“An Aquaculture Act will provide a nationally consistent and adaptable legislative framework, while also taking into account regional differences,” said Terry Beech, parliamentary secretary to the minister of fisheries, oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard.
“Our goal is to develop an Act that will provide more clarity and certainty as this industry develops across Canada, while ensuring strong sustainability and environmental protections,” added Beech. “An important step in developing this legislation is engaging with our Indigenous partners, stakeholders, and Canadians to hear their views.”
The public will have until January 15, 2021 to participate in this round of consultation and share its views.
