The investment will see the refurbishment of the Harbour Breton wharf and the introduction of new technology at the fish plant, allowing the plant to reopen later in the year creating approximately 100 jobs.
"The Provincial Government is committed to identifying and capitalising on growth opportunities that diversify the economy, create wealth, and contribute to sustainable employment.
"This investment is an example of a partnership between the Provincial Government, a municipality and business that will reinforce economic growth and opportunities and benefit local residents and the province as a whole," said Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
As part of the $1.5 million investment:
- $1 million will support the Town of Harbour Breton to refurbish the wharf adjacent to the fish plant;
- $500,000 will enable 54417 Newfoundland and Labrador Co. Ltd., managed by Barry Group International, to purchase pre-rigor processing technology for the plant. This is the first time this technology will be employed in the province and it will assist in producing product of the freshest and highest quality. The company is contributing $3.5 million to this project.
"Through the support of strategic and innovative initiatives, we are helping to ensure our province's seafood industry continues to be a major economic contributor to the provincial economy particularly in rural regions.
"Support for new processing technology is in line with our government's goals of further diversifying the seafood industry, energising rural economies, and furthering sustainability in the aquaculture sector," said Vaughn Granter, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
Salmon from Northern Harvest Sea Farms in St. Alban's will be processed at the plant. The ability to have fish processed in Harbour Breton is critical to Northern Harvest Sea Farms expansion plans.
As announced in May, the company is receiving $8.15 million from the Provincial Government toward a $17.6 million expansion of its operations, which is expected to increase employment from 145 full-time equivalent positions to 180.
"Aquaculture is growing in leaps and bounds in the Coast of Bays. Today's announcement is very exciting as we will re-open a third processing plant in the region, ensuring our sustainability for decades to come," enthused Tracey Perry, MHA for Fortune Bay - Cape La Hune.
