Canada: Government Announces Malpeque Harbour Dredging Study

The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, announced that the Government of Canada will undertake a study on dredging requirements and operational issues at Malpeque Harbour.

“Since being reappointed as Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, I have heard the concerns of many stakeholders with regards to the ongoing issues that fishermen face when using the Malpeque Harbour,” said Minister Shea. “ I am proud to announce that Fisheries and Oceans Canada will lead this study in consultation with other federal departments, the fishing industry and the aquaculture sector.”

“The Malpeque Harbour Authority, in partnership with the Prince Edward Island Aquaculture Alliance, welcome the news that Fisheries and Oceans Canada will be investing in this important Malpeque Harbour Study, ” says Dale Wall, Manager of the Harbour Authority. “Focusing on developing practical solutions to address the safety and business issues that Malpeque Harbour users face is a step forward for our harvesters. We look forward to working with the department on this important initiative.”

Elements of the study that will be examined will include industry needs and practices, dredging methods and other options in the context of current and future needs of the industry in Malpeque Bay and Darnley Basin.

“The study will help better understand the challenges that the commercial fishing and aquaculture industries are facing in their day-to-day operations and propose options to improve their working conditions,” added Minister Shea.

This announcement is in addition to the Government of Canada’s $4 million investment for maintenance, repair, construction and dredging projects at small craft harbours in Prince Edward Island announced in September.

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Press Release, September 26, 2013