**** Fisheries Media Release
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As Nova Scotia’s seafood industry continues to grow and modernize, it’s important that the province’s regulations are updated to support competitiveness and reflect today’s standards.
Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Keith Colwell introduced amendments to the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act today, Sept. 27, that will support the design of a revised regulatory framework for the licensing of fish buying and processing in Nova Scotia.
The legislation removes an outdated definition of processing, improves transparency and reduces processing time for businesses that make use of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board. These amendments create alignment with the processes of the Farm Loan Board for improved efficiency.
“Nova Scotia’s seafood products are known all over the world for their quality and we want to be sure our regulations support our industry’s success,” said Mr. Colwell. “We work closely with the sector and our shared motivation continues to be the economic benefits and good jobs the fisheries and aquaculture industries provide for Nova Scotians living in rural and coastal communities.”
If the proposed legislation is passed, a new definition of processing will be addressed in updated regulations. Industry representatives have been working with the department on its development.
Quotes:
“These changes will improve our industry’s access to the loan board, allowing our members to make facility improvements which will lead to higher quality products. In turn, these efforts will help us to increase access in a globally competitive market.”
– Leo Muise, executive director of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance
Quick Facts:
— if the bill is passed, existing regulations under the act will need to be amended
— Nova Scotia’s seafood industry exports more than $2 billion annually
— for the past four years, Nova Scotia has been Canada’s top exporter of seafood
— Nova Scotia exports account for over 30 per cent of all Canadian seafood exports
— the fishing and aquaculture industries employ about 18,000 people with thousands more in supporting industries
