PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE BEGINS JUNE 5, 2006

VICTORIA – Beginning June 5, the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture will be holding a series of public hearings in 19 communities across British Columbia. The public hearings will be an integral component of the Committee’s mandate to examine, inquire into and make recommendations with respect to sustainable aquaculture in British Columbia.

“The public consultations will provide an excellent opportunity for British Columbians to share their experiences with us,” said committee chair Robin Austin, MLA. Added deputy chair Ron Cantelon, MLA, “This Committee wants to hear directly from the people in their communities, where these issues are most important.” Based on this input, the Committee must present a report no later than March 2007.

Public hearings will be held in the following communities :

The members of the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture are:

Individuals and organizations wishing to appear before the committee should contact the Office of the Clerk of Committees at the phone numbers listed below. Local newspapers will identify the location and times of the public hearings. The Committee also welcomes written submissions by letter, fax or e-mail. All correspondence should be received by the Office of the Clerk of Committees by July 1, 2006.

Information about the Committee’s work – including transcripts of hearings and complete meeting details – can be found on its website at www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/aquaculture, by contacting any committee member, or by contacting:

-30-