Seeking to support new projects within local communities, the Government of Canada and the Province of New Brunswick have announced funding for nine projects totalling $13,350,111 through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) that will strengthen the fisheries of New Brunswick for years to come.
‘The funding granted today will allow the Federation’s fishermen, and in particular shrimpers, to take charge of the development and best practices of the redfish fishery following its relaunch in 2024. I am delighted that this project is taking shape to help equip commercial fishermen in the Acadian Peninsula to adapt to the new realities of this growing market,’ said Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard Diane Lebouthillier.
The contribution is from the $400-million AFF, funded by the federal and provincial governments. Introduced in 2017, the AFF will continue to invest in projects until 31st March 2026, at which time all projects receiving funding must be completed. The commercial fisheries and aquaculture industry, Indigenous groups, universities and academia, and industry associations and organizations, including research institutions, may apply for funding.
‘The fisheries and seafood processing industry is undergoing a period of transition, and our government will always be there to support our fishers and businesses as they adapt. Through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, we are investing in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth for our coastal communities. The projects announced today will help New Brunswick businesses modernize their infrastructure, enhance their competitiveness, and strengthen the future of our fisheries sector,’ commented Serge Cormier, Member of Parliament for Acadie―Bathurst, New Brunswick.
The largest grants are $3,484,815 to Fédération régionale acadienne des pêcheurs professionnels Inc and $3,000,000 for Benson Lobster Co Ltd.
Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd et Cooke Aquaculture Inc receives $1,417,500. $1,830,000 goes to Island Fishermen’s Co-operative Association Ltd and North Taste Flavorings Inc receives $1,053,000. True North Salmon Limited Partnership et Cooke Aquaculture Inc is awarded $879,936, while $547,584 is allocated for Pêcheries Bas-Caraquet Fisheries Inc, $681,192 for Ichiboshi L.P.C Ltd and $456,084 for Clover Leaf Seafoods Corp. Funding support also goes to McGraw Seafoods Ltd, with the amount to be made public at a later date.
‘This investment supports the transition of our northern fishery, ensuring the continued supply of high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood from Atlantic Canada. We are pleased to collaborate with our federal partners to help industry adapt, creating economic opportunities for our coastal communities,’ said New Brunswick Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Pat Finnigan.
