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Wakeham Announces Plan for Standalone Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture
For Immediate Release
(March 25, 2024, Fogo Island Central, N.L.) – PC Party Leader Tony Wakeham has unveiled a portion of his plan poised to create a brighter future for Newfoundland and Labrador's fisheries sector by announcing today that, under a PC-led Government, a dedicated Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture will be established to rigorously steward the critical fisheries portfolio.
"The establishment of a standalone Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture represents a proactive step towards ensuring sustainable management practices, fostering economic growth, and safeguarding the livelihoods of those living in rural Newfoundland and Labrador," said Wakeham. "Our fisheries resources must never again be traded or taken away for other purposes. Newfoundland and Labrador needs a formal role at the decision-making table for our fishery resources."
Standing with the PC Candidate for Fogo Island – Cape Freels, Jim McKenna, Wakeham outlined the party's steadfast commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the province's vital fishing and aquaculture industry.
"The pressing needs of the fishery were on full display last week during the protest by our fish harvesters, plant workers, and crew members. This would never have occurred under my leadership. The Furey Liberals have not given the industry the attention and respect it deserves. For PCs, a stronger fishery is a stronger Newfoundland and Labrador."
"A PC Government under my leadership with a standalone Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture will promote open and fair access to our fishery while bringing decision-making closer to home by demanding a seat at the table. Harvesters deserve to go fishing, processers deserve to process, and plant workers and crew deserve to earn a good living. Rural Newfoundland and Labrador deserve better."
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Media Contact:
Ashley Jackson-Politi
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(W) (709) 685-3161
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