How do you picture the aquaculture industry developing in the next decade?
The world is watching, to see which way BC and Canada goes. Will we move to closed containment and protect our wild salmon, or will we continue on with harmful open net fish farm practices? New Democrats introduced the Wild Salmon Protection Act last year that would see harmful fish farms move to safe closed containment. At the same time, we are committed to ensuring that we protect the employment that aquaculture provides. Through a considered transition process, this is entirely possible.
It is quite natural for people to be concerned about their jobs. While large corporations made out quite well under the Conservatives during the recession, middle-class families found themselves struggling. People on the North Island saw their traditional jobs evaporating before their eyes, so it is no wonder they are worried that a move to closed containment might affect the job they depend on to care for their families. The NDP will ensure that their jobs are protected while we quickly move towards a sustainable system so that they continue to have jobs for many years to come.
This election offers people an opportunity to send a strong message to those who will stand up for wild salmon and our amazing ocean ecosystem. The way to stand up for wild salmon and protect our coastline is to defeat conservatives and elect New Democrats.