The federal government gave a Bella Bella fish plant a $1-million cash injection to upgrade its operations.
“Our Government’s top priority is the economic recovery,” said Sen. Yonah Martin, who announced the support last week.
The senator said Canada’s commercial fishing industry plays a vital role in helping to keep the economy strong.
“The upgraded Bella Bella Fish Plant will increase the amount of seafood processed on the central coast of B.C., creating more jobs and supporting economic growth,” she said.
The investment of more than $1 million in Western Diversification Program and West Coast Community Adjustment Program funding will assist in building renovations and repairs to the current facility.
It will also enable upgrades to the refrigeration system and ice maker, as well as the acquisition of capital equipment necessary to support the processing of fresh marine finfish and shellfish products at the Bella Bella fish plant.
“This project is much more than just a fish plant — it is the backbone of our efforts to revitalize the central coast fishing and marine industry, and will be the main driver for the economy of this village,” said Ray Gerow, chief executive development officer of the Heiltsuk Economic Development Corporation.
“We are eagerly looking forward to having it back up in full operation and greatly appreciate the funding provided by the federal government,” he said.
“Without this funding we would not have been able to attract other funding sources, and this project would not have been realized.”