Question Period Note: Aquaculture - Open-Net Pen Transition Plan in British Columbia

How does the government intend to transition marine finfish aquaculture in British Columbia?

• Given the unprecedented threats that wild Pacific salmon are facing, we must take action to conserve and protect them.
• I am committed to developing a responsible plan to transition from open net-pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia coastal waters and drive toward technological innovation that places Canada at the forefront of modern, sustainable aquaculture.
• We have been engaging with British Columbians, including First Nations and the Province of B.C. in the development of this plan.

• On June 22, 2022, the Minister announced next steps towards development of a plan for transitioning from open-net pen salmon aquaculture in coastal British Columbia.
• The Government of Canada previously undertook engagement in 2020 and 2021 and collected views on transitioning the salmon aquaculture sector in British Columbia.
• On July 29, 2022, Fisheries and Oceans Canada released a discussion framework which outlines a proposed vision for transitioning from open-net pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia. The framework has helped guide engagement with the Government of British Columbia, First Nations, industry, local governments, stakeholders, and British Columbians.
• Engagement on the discussion framework ran until early 2023. A “what we heard” report on phase two of engagement, which comprised intensive engagement and the development of plan elements, was published in May 2023, and will be used to inform and guide continued engagement through the summer of 2023.

If pressed on progress towards transition plan:
• To meet the needs of First Nations, industry and stakeholders, we are extending the consultations with all interested parties until the end of the summer.
• I Once the plan is finalized and published, we will continue to collaborate and engage with partners and stakeholders on its implementation.