Additional $1 Million Provided for Expansion of Aquaculture Wharf in Pools Cove

It is imperative that wharf infrastructure effectively addresses the needs of the aquaculture industry, said Derrick Dalley, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

The growth of the industry in the region and the need to increase efficiency has resulted in the use of large vessels that deliver bulk feed for farming efforts. These vessels were too large to dock at the wharf, necessitating an extension. Our government is pleased to support this project and the ongoing development of aquaculture for the benefit of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The wharf in Pools Cove was originally constructed in 2011. The Provincial Government invested C$3 million in the project at that time. The additional funding will provide for a 25 metre expansion of the wharf and additional dredging.

The commitment of the Provincial Government continues to grow with the growing demand of the aquaculture industry, said Tracey Perry, MHA for Fortune Bay Cape La Hune. While the existing wharf has served the region very well, the time has come for an expansion to address the growing needs of the industry. I am thoroughly pleased by our governments commitment to this community and to the many companies that are providing so much benefit to the people of the south coast and the entire province. Aquaculture is breathing new life into some of these rural communities, and by investing in enhanced infrastructure we are securing this industry for the future.

Construction of the expansion is ongoing and is anticipated to be completed by June of 2013.

As a representative of the Newfoundland and Labrador Aquaculture Industry Association, as well as one of the companies that use this wharf regularly, I am very pleased with this announcement, said Jennifer Caines, Director with the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association. The industry has a great working relationship with the Provincial Government and we are pleased that the request to expand this vital wharf was approved. We can obviously count on this government to support us in providing opportunities and hope for the communities in which we operate. Today is yet another example of the cooperation we have come to depend on and enjoy.

The Provincial Government allocated over C$6.2 million in Budget 2012: People and Prosperity Responsible Investments for a Secure Future for the construction of aquaculture wharves in the Coast of Bays region, including the C$1 million for the Pools Cove expansion. These wharves not only provide the industry with much needed space to carry out its work, but will enhance biosecurity and fish health performance by providing clean inflow areas. Biosecurity in particular is vital to helping to protect the health of fish and the industry and ultimately communities.