Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet announced the appointment of an eight-member advisory group on seafood marketing, while delivering his department's 2008-09 budget estimates.
The advisory group was identified as a priority in the Fisheries Renewal Framework 2008-09 action plan released by the minister last week.
"This new group will provide invaluable advice to our department in the areas of marketing, promotion, certification, and trade missions," said Doucet.
The Fisheries Renewal Framework explains how New Brunswick fisheries can be sustainable, economically viable and self-sufficient. The framework and 2008-09 action plan were developed after unprecedented consultation with industry stakeholders.
"We must work closely with the industry to open new doors in non-traditional markets," said Mr Doucet.
"Transforming this province's fishing industry to maximize its full potential requires a team approach."
The members of the advisory group are: Lynn Albert, L.A. Trading, Caraquet; Doris Losier, Cape Bald Packers, Cap-Pelé; Paul Boudreau, McGraw Seafoods, Tracadie-Sheila; Jean Lamontagne, Cooke Aquaculture, Saint John; David Lomas, Connors Bros, Blacks Harbour; Christian Brun, Maritime Fishermen's Union, Shediac; as well as Louis Arsenault and Anita Landry from the Department of Fisheries.
New Brunswick is the fourth largest exporter of fish and seafood products in Canada, with lobster, farmed Atlantic salmon and snow crab accounting for the top three exported species.
New Group to Advise Fisheries Department on Marketing
FREDERICTON - The provincial government is to establish an advisory group to give the fishing and seafood industry a greater role in how New Brunswick markets and promotes seafood.