Newfoundland proud of its aquaculture business
Challenged by an article produced by a local photographer and journalist, Newfoundland and Labrador’s minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development- Mr. Shawn Skinner- issued the following comments to The Chronicle Herald regarding the Province’s policies and priorities; “As a government, we are utilizing our extensive natural resources — both onshore and offshore — to strengthen our financial position, reduce debt, reduce taxes and contribute to programs aimed at supporting economic growth across all regions.For example, the province’s aquaculture industry, which is predominantly centred on the south coast, is a leader in aquaculture. In three years (2005-08), the industry’s total value increased from $33.6 million to more than $63 million. Additionally, the number of people employed in the industry has almost doubled to more than 1,000 people since 2005, and multiple spin-off benefits are being created every day in relation to aquaculture projects.Within other regions of Newfoundland and Labrador, positive trends are emerging. Its west coast is becoming a centre for environmental excellence and first-response training; its eastern region has become a hub for cultural tourism; and its northern region has massive energy potential.I do agree that the most important stories are about people. Newfoundland and Labrador may be rich in natural resources, but our greatest asset is our people. As a government, we believe in our people and our actions reflect their importance.By investing in Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, we are considerably advancing our objective of providing new employment and business opportunities in communities across the province. We will continue to invest in infrastructure and programming that help create business and academic opportunities for people in all regions of the province. There are exciting initiatives underway in Newfoundland and Labrador”.
