“I am proud to see that Canadian aquaculture is helping to meet the growing global demand for fresh fish and seafood,” said Minister Shea. “By funding innovative projects, the Government of Canada is encouraging this increasingly competitive sector to become stronger, more innovative and more environmentally sustainable.”
The federal funding is being provided through the Aquaculture Innovation and Market Access Programme (AIMAP). For the 2009/10 fiscal year, this is the second round of projects to receive AIMAP funding, and all funds for this fiscal year have now been allocated.
Businesses receiving these investments include:
- Sablefish Canada Ltd. to improve environmental performance and reduce mortality in sablefish broodstock production;
- Target Marine Hatcheries Ltd. to design and construct a water recirculation system that promotes the maturation of adult white sturgeon;
- Limberis Seafood Processing Ltd. to import and modify equipment to fully automate Manila clam processing; and
- Below Sea Level Oyster Co. to continue with phase two of a predator deterrent method for intertidal shellfish farms that is non-lethal and cost-effective.
Under AIMAP, the Government of Canada is investing $23.5 million over five years to support the development of a vibrant and sustainable Canadian aquaculture industry that contributes to the economies of rural, coastal and First Nations communities. Recipients are required to demonstrate how their projects meet at least one of the following objectives: sustainable production, increased diversification, green technology and/or market access. This is the second year of the five-year programme.
