QUESTION PERIOD — Ministry of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
Canadian Salmon
June 4, 2024
Minister, I have another question about salmon farming.
In a recent press release, the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance, or CAIA, outlined concerns regarding the disappearance of 390 million Canadian-produced salmon meals from our markets and restaurants. This loss, replaced by imported salmon with higher costs and a larger carbon footprint, has significant implications for Canadian consumers and our domestic aquaculture sector.
According to CAIA’s latest data, farm-raised salmon production in Canada has plummeted from 148,000 metric tons in 2016 to 90,000 metric tons in 2023, marking the lowest production since 2000. This decline is primarily attributed to government-mandated farm closures in British Columbia.
Could you shed light on your government’s strategy to address these challenges and support the resurgence of Canadian‑produced salmon for the benefit of our citizens, the environment and our economy?
As far as aquaculture is concerned, it is important to have a responsible and feasible plan and to ensure that aquaculture development doesn’t impact wild species. I also mentioned global warming. We have to work with that balance in mind. As far as British Columbia is concerned, we’re currently in a holding pattern with the Discovery Islands case. We’re waiting for the ruling.
