As announced by Minister Shea on August 22, 2014, the Government of Canada has pre-published the proposed Aquaculture Activities Regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part I, to begin a 60-day public consultation.
These proposed Regulations aim at increasing sustainable aquaculture production in Canada while protecting the environment. These Regulations will increase the transparency and accountability of the industry.
The proposed Aquaculture Activities Regulations' objective is to increase oversight and ensure there are clear and consistent rules for aquaculture operators from coast to coast.
The proposed Regulations add to the existing rules by imposing three new conditions.
Firstly, operators would have to provide written reports of alternatives to pesticide and drug use that were considered before using any of these regulated products.
Secondly, operators would have to have mitigation measures in place to minimize potential negative impacts on wild fish species and their habitat.
Thirdly, operators would have to report these activities to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans on a yearly basis. The Department will then make the overall data publicly available annually.
The Government of Canada is committed to continue improving Canada's already strong regulatory system - one of the most rigorous in the world - to ensure that the aquaculture industry is safe, healthy and ensures the sustainable use of marine resources.
