Canadian government to invest US$20M to uplift Quebec’s fishing industry 

CANADA – The Canadian government has announced a US$20 million investment to improve and expand fishing harbours along Quebec’s North Shore. 

This initiative aims to support fish harvesters and strengthen the infrastructure critical to the region’s fishing industry, according to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

The funding will focus on major projects at three harbours: Natashquan, Kegaska, and Baie-Trinité. 

These harbours serve over 70 fishers who collectively brought in seafood worth nearly US$5.8 million in 2023. 

The planned upgrades are part of a long-term plan to modernize facilities, enhance working conditions, and ensure the sustainability of commercial fishing operations in the region.

In Natashquan, construction of a modern fishing harbour is expected to be completed by 2028. 

The new facility is designed to provide safe, advanced infrastructure for local fishers and accommodate increased landings of high-value species such as lobster and snow crab.

The Kegaska harbour is set to undergo an expansion and operational improvements, with work scheduled for completion by 2026. 

Baie-Trinité’s harbour will see significant modernization efforts, with upgrades anticipated to finish in 2027.

This investment aligns with a broader national strategy to improve Canada’s small craft harbours. 

The 2024 federal budget allocates US$344 million to repair and maintain harbours across the country, adding to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ annual budget of $66.9 million. 

Funding also includes resources to address damage caused by Hurricane Fiona in 2022.

Small craft harbours are essential to our fishing communities,” said Fisheries and Oceans Minister Diane Lebouthillier.

“These investments will secure economic opportunities and ensure future generations can continue maritime traditions.”

Canada’s aquaculture sector has faced notable changes in recent years. 

In 2023, farmed finfish production dropped by 15.7% to 118,196 tons, while farmed shellfish production declined by 4.5% to 42,722 tons. 

The total production volume in 2022 saw a 9% decrease, although its value rose by 1%. 

In 2021, Canadian households spent US$230 on fish and seafood annually, while in 2020, the country produced nearly one million tons of seafood, valued at US$3.7 billion.

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