In June 2024, the Government of Canada announced the implementation of a ban on open net-pen salmon aquaculture in coastal British Columbia (B.C.) by June 30, 2029. In close collaboration with the Province, First Nations and the aquaculture industry, the Government of Canada will support a transition toward an innovative and sustainable aquaculture sector in B.C.
Interdepartmental task force
An interdepartmental task force, which will act as a Government of Canada secretariat, will contribute expertise from across the government in reconciliation, economic and community development, green technology, and aquaculture management.
The task force will support Ryan Turnbull, Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. It includes representatives from the following Government of Canada departments and agencies:
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
- Indigenous Services Canada
- Pacific Economic Development Canada
- Employment and Social Development Canada
- Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
- Natural Resources Canada
- Department of Finance Canada
- Privy Council Office
- Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
- National Research Council Canada
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Engagement
Parliamentary Secretary Turnbull is leading the government engagement with a particular focus on First Nations, industry and the Government of British Columbia—to ensure this transition is managed effectively with sustainability and reconciliation at the forefront.
Written submissions on the Draft Transition Plan are due by January 17, 2025. Discussion questions for each of the four themes that may help guide these submissions are provided in the Draft Transition Plan. Submissions can be sent by email, or for larger submissions (of up to 100MB) they can also be submitted online.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada plans to extend consultation and engagement on proposed amendments to the Pacific Aquaculture Regulations in relation to a ban on open net-pen salmon aquaculture beyond the above timeframe. Additional information related to the regulatory amendment process will be provided separately.
Thank you in advance for taking the time to provide your input on the Draft Transition Plan. Consultation will continue to take place leading to a final Transition Plan and consultation on implementation will continue beyond the release of the Transition Plan.
Related links
- Draft Salmon Aquaculture Transition Plan for British Columbia
- Protecting wild Pacific salmon: the transition from open net-pen salmon aquaculture to closed containment systems in British Columbia coastal waters
Contact
Should you have any questions, contact us at BCSATTaskForce-GroupeDeTravailTSCB@ised-isde.gc.ca.