Wakeham Commits to Dedicated Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister For All of Us

 

 

September 20, 2025

Harbour Breton, NL – Progressive Conservative Leader Tony Wakeham announced today that a PC government will appoint a dedicated Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture to focus on growing Newfoundland and Labrador’s traditional fishery and harnessing the full potential of aquaculture. Wakeham was joined for the announcement by local candidate Ada John.

“Ada John will be a strong MHA for Fortune Bay - Cape La Hune. Her experience as a Nurse Practitioner helping residents of the area will help us create better healthcare for all of us. Her dedication to rural and coastal communities is evident; she has advocated hard for a dedicated Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister,” said Wakeham.

 

“Our coastal communities rely on fishing and aquaculture to continue to flourish, not just as economic drivers but as a way of life,” said Wakeham. “We need a full-time Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister who will stand up for all of us - including our harvesters, processors, plant workers and communities.

 

Wakeham said the Liberals have ignored the fishery for far too long. “Fish harvesters were forced to protest just to be heard, while decisions that affect their livelihoods were made without consultation. A PC government will listen to the people on the wharves, take their concerns seriously, and take immediate action to protect and grow this vital sector for all of us.”

The dedicated Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture will be tasked with:

  • Standing Up to Ottawa – Demanding joint control of the fishery with Ottawa, while maintaining exclusive provincial control over processing. A PC government will fight harmful federal decisions, such as the closure of the mackerel fishery and reductions in quotas, such as crab.

  • Strengthening Industry Collaboration – Ensuring no policy or legislative changes are made without confirming they support, not hinder, the fishery.

  • Growing Value and Markets – Focusing on adding value to the products we harvest and identifying new markets to increase the sector’s overall worth.

  • Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture – Backing the aquaculture industry through a world-class regulatory regime that balances environmental protection with responsible growth.

  • Protecting Coastal Jobs – Advocating for full provincial control over offshore marine development and opposing federal overreach, including the proposed Marine Protected Area on Newfoundland’s South Coast.

 

“After 10 years of Liberal scandals, protests, and mismanagement, our fishery and aquaculture sectors have been eroded at the hands of Liberals. That is why a Progressive Conservative government will create a dedicated Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. It is time to roll up our sleeves, bring decision making back to the people on the wharves, and get to work for all of us,” concluded Wakeham.