Backgrounder
Atlantic Canada's fish and seafood sector has faced significant challenges and financial hardship since the downturn in the economy due to COVID-19. That is why the Government of Canada is helping fish and seafood processors navigate these difficult times with support through the Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund.
An initiative of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the $62.5 million fund is being delivered by three of Canada's Regional Development Agencies. ACOA is delivering $42.7 million in Atlantic Canada.
Today, Ken McDonald, Member of Parliament for Avalon, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced total investments of $1,008,462 for six projects. The funds will help fish and seafood processors in Aquaforte, Bay Roberts, Brigus, Port de Grave and Ship Harbour weather the pandemic and prepare for a strong economic recovery, so that their communities can continue to thrive.
Aqua Crab Producers Inc. $54,750
Non-repayable
Aquaforte
To support expenditures for health and safety modifications to its snow crab processing operation in Aquaforte, including installation of dividers, purchase of an office trailer and breakroom furnishings to achieve safe social distancing, as well as work station refits and thermometers.
Bay Roberts Seafoods Ltd. $39,750
Non-repayable
Bay Roberts
To build a holding room for capelin in which a new compressor will be installed. The room allows for safe social distancing of employees and will keep capelin product cool until the racks are full enough to go to the freezer. Other COVID-related costs that will be included are, a new employee entrance, dividers between scales and belts in the plant and an additional conveyor belt line.
Dandy Dan's Fish Market Ltd. $15,435
Non-repayable
Ship Harbour
To enhance plant health and safety measures for employees and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Fame Fisheries Ltd. $181,500
Non-repayable
Bay Roberts
To support expenditures related to their extensive COVID-19 health and safety program aboard their factory freezer trawler to protect their employees, including reusable special matting and other personal protective equipment (PPE).
Independent Fish Harvesters Inc. $42,150
Non-repayable
Brigus
To introduce new health and safety measures at its seafood processing plant including, installation of dividers, breakroom upgrades to achieve social distancing, PPE and an air purification system.
Nu Sea Products Inc. $674,877
Repayable
Port de Grave
To implement three snow crab processing machines to allow for safe separation of employees while producing better yield and a high quality product.
