Canada and Nova Scotia to fund projects in fish and seafood sector

The Government of Canada and Province of Nova Scotia are set to provide funding through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund to nine companies in the fish and seafood sectors of the area.

The projects are expected to help innovate and support local economic growth while protecting the environment.

Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard minister Jonathan Wilkinson said: “Our government is working with our partners to make Canada’s fish and seafood sector more innovative, productive and sustainable.

“We are boosting the local economy and increasing employment opportunities in small coastal and Indigenous communities, while also ensuring the health of our fisheries for future generations.”

Canada-based Coldwater Lobster Association (CLA) will partner with an oceans technology company to evaluate rope-less fishing gear, acoustic receivers and related technology to minimise risks to the endangered marine mammals.

Funding will be used by IMO Foods to install processing systems to upgrade its seafood canning operations, reduce energy consumption and lower emissions.

Eel Lake Oyster will use the funding for oyster grading technology, while six tuna fishing companies will purchase greenstick trolling equipment that will help harvesters increase fishing practice productivity.

Approximately C$573,000 ($437,087) will be provided through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, along with a C$195,000 ($148,747) repayable contribution for IMO Foods under the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Business Development Program.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Nova Scotia minister Keith Colwell said: “We know the importance of our fisheries sector and what it means to our economy.

“Together with our partners, we’re continuing to grow our exports and supporting innovation to ensure our fisheries remains strong, prosperous, and sustainable for generations.”