Allan Campbell, Prince Edward Island Fisheries Minister, has asked his department to meet with oyster harvesters and dealers to discuss concerns about the quality of oysters produced in the province. According to him it is important to maintain and strengthen the international reputation of Malpeque oysters. He is confident that the province will continue to market a high quality product and for this the government is seriously taking any concerns that are expressed which question the quality of that product.
For the past few months questions have been raised about the size ad shape of some oysters shipped from the province. Campbell said that discussions with the industry and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans are going on to determine what steps should be taken to address them. He told that the oyster industry has worked hard over the years to establish its reputation and added if additional measures are needed to improve quality, he is confident the industry will respond.
According to Campbell his department is already working closely with harvesters to improve quality. The department provides ongoing support to the Prince Edward Island Shellfish Association for oyster enhancement projects on public fishing grounds. Campbell told that there is growing competition in the marketplace, and it is equally important to maintain and strengthen the quality of oyster product.
