Neil LeClair
Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development

Working Toward Enhanced Opportunity in Rural Prince Edward Island

Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development is working to enhance opportunity in rural communities and building on the strengths of its fisheries and aquaculture resources. This reflects the overall commitment of the Provincial Government to improve the standard of living and quality of life for all Islanders, wherever they live.

The department is in the process of formulating a rural development strategy. This new strategy will bring a rural, small community focus to Government policy development. The strategy is based on three key themes: sharing leadership; finding a balance between existing strengths, needs and new opportunities; and responding to the distinct needs and opportunities of each region. The extension of rural broadband to all areas of the province will open up new opportunities for rural businesses to compete in the global marketplace.

The fisheries and aquaculture industries are vital to the well-being of coastal communities in the province. The harvesting, processing and marketing of fisheries and aquaculture products generates significant economic and employment opportunities. Initiatives have been undertaken to expand markets, improve quality, develop new products and increase the utilization of fisheries and aquaculture resources.

The department works closely with other governments and the industry to ensure the sustainable management of the resource. It continues to pursue the objective of gaining a more equitable share of the fishery resources in the region and providing more diversified opportunities for fishers, aquaculturalists and processors.

The department looks forward to its re-location to Montague in the coming months. The re-location is part of the Provincial Government's efforts to enhance opportunities throughout Prince Edward Island.

Neil LeClair
Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development