Next step in regulation transfer a welcome one

Signing of a memorandum of understanding between the provincial and federal governments is a welcome next step in the transfer of aquaculture regulations to the federal government, said the BC Salmon Farmers Association, reports www.megafishnet.com with reference to BC Salmon Farmers Association.

Federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Gail Shea and provincial Minister of Agriculture Ben Stewart signed the memorandum of understanding Friday for the regulatory transfer, which will officially occur Dec. 18.

"We welcome the new regulations and are glad to see the two levels of government working together to provide a stable operational environment for the BC aquaculture industry," said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Famers Association.

While the BCSFA hasn't yet seen the MOU and its contents, they have provided feedback into the Pacific Aquaculture Regulations during the public consultation period and are happy to see the final regulations posted in Canada Gazette this week.

The BC industry feels the new regulations will help to better streamline management of the industry allowing regulators and business to look at other operational opportunities.

"Our industry has developed into the successful and sustainable business that it is in part due to the hard work of our provincial regulators - we look forward to continuing that forward motion with our new federal colleagues," said Walling.

While there is more to be done as these new regulations are implemented, the work so far by DFO and the province is important. Industry passes along its congratulations to all for the hard work.

BC's salmon farming industry employs 6,000 people directly and indirectly and contribute $800-million to the provincial economy. Farmed Atlantic salmon is the province's largest agricultural export.