Canadian aquaculture puts thousands of Canadians to work in rural and coastal communities and relieves the strain on global fish stocks. Canada can be a world leader, creating new jobs and attracting vital investment in this sustainable industry, but we need a national plan to make that vision a reality.

We need a federal Aquaculture Act.

Canadian aquaculture is environmentally sustainable and exceeds Canadian food safety standards. An Aquaculture Act would establish Canada-wide environmental standards, clarify industry responsibilities and codify a proud legacy of environmental stewardship.

For far too long, Canadian aquaculture has been subject to overlapping and often conflicting jurisdiction—currently the industry is governed by 73 pieces of legislation.

A federal Aquaculture Act would build on the common sense regulatory changes coming forward from the department of Fisheries and Oceans and would enable Canada to realize its full potential, creating new jobs and expanding opportunity.

This Act would recognize in law the long-standing reality of aquaculture as a legitimate caretaker of Canada’s aquatic resources. It would support efforts to ensure a modern industry and build on an already impressive record of safety and sustainability.

Realizing aquaculture’s potential will revitalize communities like ours. An Aquaculture Act would provide the certainty necessary to unleash new investment and create 47,000 new jobs in an industry that is socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.

A vibrant aquaculture sector will provide vital relief in areas where traditional economies have been shrinking and government has had to step in to support displaced workers.

For Canada to become a global leader, the way forward is clear. We need a federal Aquaculture Act that enables Canada’s industry, builds on the strengths of upcoming common sense regulatory changes and which enables producers to create jobs.