AQUACULTURE COMMITTEE WORK BEGINS WITH BRIEFINGS

VICTORIA – The Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture has completed its preliminary briefings from provincial and federal agencies. On Feb. 1, the committee heard presentations from the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, B.C. Ministry of Environment and the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Each provided an overview to the committee on its regulatory roles and responsibilities in the area of aquaculture in British Columbia.

“It is important that the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture begin this process by gaining a better understanding of how the various government ministries and departments are involved in regulating the industry. This information can help us move forward with our mandate of examining sustainable aquaculture practices that balance economic goals and the health of the wild stocks ,” said committee chair Robin Austin, MLA.

On Feb. 2, the committee met to discuss a plan by which it could conduct its business during the next 18 months. In the coming days, the committee intends to develop a public hearing schedule along with a schedule of site visits to better inform itself of the issues and enable public input.

“Our aim is not only to gather information from experts in the field, but also to consult with the people in the communities impacted most by the aquaculture industry,” stated deputy chair Ron Cantelon, MLA. “We will also be issuing a call for written submissions so we can hear what all British Columbians have to say about this important issue.”

The Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture is unique in that its chair is a member of the Official Opposition, as are the majority of the committee members.

The members of the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture are:

Information about the committee’s work and transcripts of hearings can be found on its website at www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/index.htm, by contacting any committee member, or by contacting:

Craig James, Clerk Assistant and Clerk of Committees
Room 224, Parliament Buildings, Victoria, B.C., V8V 1X4
Telephone: 250 356-2933, Toll-free: 1-877-428-8337, Fax: 250 356-8172
E-mail: Aquaculture@leg.bc.ca

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