Campbell River, BC – The BC Salmon Farmers Association is disappointed to hear the result of the second judicial review decision. The judicial review was filed by We Wai Kai and Wei Wai Kum First Nations, along with Mowi Canada West, Cermaq Canada and Grieg Seafood, following former DFO minister Joyce Murray’s decision to not renew aquaculture licences in the Discovery Islands region, within the core traditional territory of the Laich-kwil-tach and Klahoose peoples.
While this news is disheartening, there is still a collaborative pathway forward with the current Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, as this decision was made by the preceding minister and will not impact the future delivery of a responsible transition plan or the upcoming licencing decision.
We are committed to working with all levels of government, the rights-holder First Nations in whose territories we operate, and various other stakeholders to continue on a responsible, realistic, and achievable path forward. We will have more to say in the coming weeks after we have had time to review this decision in more detail.
ABOUT THE BC SALMON FARMERS ASSOCIATION
BC salmon farmers are committed to reconciliation, and all farms operating in BC are currently done in agreement, negotiation, or established partnerships with First Nations in whose territories we operate. These agreements are founded upon recognizing First Nations’ right to exercise jurisdiction over the land, resources, and waters within their territories.
Farm-raised salmon generates over $1.2 billion for the provincial economy supporting thousands of jobs. Additionally, farm-raised salmon provides a nutritious and sustainably produced protein with a low carbon footprint that contributes to Canada’s food security and Blue Economy.
The BC Salmon Farmers Association represents over 60 businesses and organizations throughout the value chain of finfish aquaculture in BC. Our members account for over 95% of the annual provincial harvest of farm-raised salmon in British Columbia.
For more information, visit bcsalmonfarmers.ca.
MEDIA CONTACT
Michelle Franze
Manager of Communications, Partnerships and Community
michelle@bcsalmonfarmers.ca
604-202-4417