Dear editor,
I am writing in reply to a news story (Morton changes tactics in battle for salmon) and editorial (Want Change? Make it) from the March 6th edition of the North Island Gazette.
It is extremely disappointing to see our community newspaper take a position against a sector that has done so much for the community and is responsible for so many jobs on the North Island.
These same criticisms and misinformation about salmon farming have been repeated by some individuals for years now. There is much science that contradicts many of the claims, so it is unfortunate to see the paper print an article with no rebuttal or facts from qualified experts on the points raised.
It is also disheartening to see our community paper take an editorial stance that only shareholders of fish farming companies benefit from salmon farming in British Columbia when so many local families are dedicated to, and benefit from, this industry. We are hardworking, active members of our community who are proud of the quality product that we help produce. I wasn’t aware that being profitable was considered a bad quality in a business – and I’m quite sure all local businesses (many who advertise in this paper) would agree with me.
The discussion about salmon farming is important, but it is equally important that it is a debate about facts and science, not scare tactics and lies. I would hope that in the future our local paper takes the time to get the facts straight before going to print.
Dave Pashley
Marine Harvest Canada
Port Hardy