Throughout the course of 2013, more than 3,500 inspections were carried out during harvesting, processing, handling, transportation and storage of provincial seafood products.
“The Provincial Government is dedicated to maintaining the high quality of our seafood products, and our strong reputation in the international market. Our highly trained inspection staff and rigorous inspection protocols help ensure our provincial seafood will consistently meet the standards and expectations of consumers throughout the world,” said Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
As part of the Provincial Government’s efforts to enhance quality control for seafood products, a Quality, Compliance and Enforcement Programme was established for inspectors in 2007.
This programme provides advanced training in numerous aspects of fish inspection and regulation enforcement, including legislation and licensing, inspection techniques, criminal law, and law enforcement ethics.
The programme has 17 modules, with students receiving training through classroom and hands-on exercises. The programme produced its first eight graduates in 2013, all of whom received an Advanced Diploma in Quality, Compliance and Enforcement.
Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries, and building a vibrant economy.