June 27, 2022

Aquaculture industry players in Canada welcome government's renewal of salmon farm licenses

The Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA) and the BC Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA) believe that the Canadian federal government's decision to renew the licenses of salmon farms in British Columbia and establish a process for the salmon farms in the Discovery Islands is good for Canadians.

Canada's science evaluation process and multiple independent peer-reviewed science processes have recently concluded that salmon farms have minimal effect on wild fish abundance and that farmed and wild salmon can and do co-exist in the Pacific Ocean.

"The renewal of licences in British Columbia is a positive first step and confirms the voices of Industry and First Nations, in whose territories we operate, have been heard," said Ruth Salmon, interim executive director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association. "This announcement will give us the opportunity to work with all levels of government, including First Nations, to secure a future that will benefit Indigenous and non-Indigenous coastal communities, meet the global demand for healthy, affordable seafood and support the continuation in protection and restoration of wild Pacific salmon."

"Canadians and the world need a climate-friendly, affordable, and secure food supply at a time of significant food and living cost inflation," said Timothy Kennedy, president and chief executive officer of the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA). "While we are encouraged that licences have been renewed, we genuinely needed a six-year license term that reflected our production cycle. Longer license terms would have provided the confidence to further invest in innovation and technology, leading to continued operational and sustainable improvements, job creation for coastal communities and greater food security."

Salmon added: "Global demand for fish is growing as is the demand for sustainable, low-carbon solutions. Canada should be the best in the world at farming salmon, and in doing so we can ensure Canada has a secure supply of this important food protein."

Kennedy said: "The decision is an important validation of peer-reviewed science and procedural fairness. We will work with governments and partners to create long-term value to contribute to Canada's blue economy and secure home-grown fresh food supply."

- Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance