Salmon farming in British Columbia could be a $3.5 billion (~€ 2.3 billion) industry by 2035, representing some 20,000 jobs.

Odd Grydeland

As the Senate Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans come to the final stages of public hearings about the current opportunities and challenges of the Canadian aquaculture industry, as well as the regulatory system for the industry, a meeting in Nanaimo on Vancouver Island last night provided some interesting contrasts. Some of the more noticeable reports surrounding the meeting include these comments:

• By Nancy Greene-Raines, the only Committee member from B.C.: Aquaculture projects along B.C.'s coasts and across Canada provide "huge opportunities" for employment and economic growth. B.C. is unique in national discussions concerning the aquaculture industry in that the issue has become "polarized" between those who are against it and the industry itself. "I believe we should be growing fish and that it can be done sustainably. At the end of the day, there is no solid evidence that salmon farms here impact wild salmon stocks." (Nanaimo Daily News)

• By Colleen Evans, President and CEO of the Campbell River Chamber of Commerce: Aquaculture is an important part of the economic fabric of Campbell River and we are glad these Senators are coming to learn more about how they can help it achieve its full potential and be an even greater part of our community. The potential new jobs and economic opportunity this could create in a community like Campbell River is exciting. (The Fish Site)

• By Jeremy Dunn, Executive Director of the B.C. Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA): While BC’s salmon farming community currently contributes $800-million (~€524 million) to the provincial economy, it could grow to $1.4 billion (~€920 million) by 2020, resulting in 8,000 total jobs. By 2035, it could reach $3.5 billion (~€2.3 billion) and 20,000 jobs. All the sector needs is legislation that better speaks to the work of the province’s ocean farmers. We are looking forward to the Senators touring our members operations, and having the opportunity to share our positive outlook on the sector in Canada. We know that strong rules about salmon farming are important to the public, and we welcome the stringent standards that a stand-alone Aquaculture Act would bring, as our members have shown their determination to meet and exceed high expectations. (BCSFA)

• By anti-salmon farming activist Alexandra Morton: I will comment more later, but that was a very, very difficult day. I was unable to communicate the risks, so much so I had to ask one of them after if I had been called a "liar". It was very disappointing. (Alexandra Morton on Facebook)