2. How do you picture the aquaculture industry developing in the next decade?
We are all aware of the potential environmental impact of fish farms, and I assume that is what your question is referring to. I believe the decision by the BC Supreme court to make marine finfish aquaculture a matter of federal jurisdiction is a mistake. As an MP, I would push for new legislation to turn the management of the fisheries over to the closest competent level of government as possible, which of course would be provincial, as I do not believe that what might be best for the maritime or northern aquaculture industry would also be best in BC. It is also my understanding that there is a court ordered moratorium on both expansion and new farm licenses issued. Any time a court has to step in like this simply means the industry has run away from the apparently inadequate legislation to govern the industry. A reworking of the legislation is required, either on the federal or provincial level or both. I would add that I would like to see more duality of responsibility / stewardship put on the industry owners, with very tough penalties for the grossly negligent.