April 11, 2023

Canadian minister meets aquaculture representatives in Norway

Canada's Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Joyce Murray recently travelled to Norway and Iceland on March 30 - April 5, and met with representatives of the Norwegian aquaculture sector.

Murray is seeking insights as Canada guides the transition from open-net pen aquaculture in British Columbia waters. The minister spoke with members of the Norwegian government, industry stakeholders, alternative technology developers and environmental groups to discuss the importance of sustainable aquaculture and the shared vision of Canada and Norway in facilitating industry success while protecting wild salmon.

Murray heard about the challenges and opportunities facing the Norwegian aquaculture sector, including the development and implementation of new technologies and how they could be adapted for Canadian waters.

In Iceland, she met with Thor Sigfusson, founder and chairman of the Iceland Ocean Cluster. They discussed the Iceland Ocean Cluster's 100% Fish Project, including improved processing and handling of aquatic and marine food resources through the reuse of waste generated in harvesting and/or production.

Murray also met with Petur Oskarsson, chief executive officer of Business Iceland, and visited industry facilities, including Lysi, the largest producer and exporter of cod liver oil in Iceland. 

Throughout her visit, Murray had the opportunity to speak with senior government officials, industry and environmental non-governmental organisations, as well as tour various facilities. These meetings and visits provided an opportunity to learn and share best practices on how to manage ocean resources in the most environmentally and climate-conscious way possible.

"As the world's appetite for high-quality fish and seafood continues to grow, and climate consciousness grows around the world, we must find novel and innovative ways to manage the oceans and restore the resources within them," said Murray. "The Government of Canada will continue working together and sharing best practices to restore ocean health and protect our marine ecosystems."

- Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada