The BC Salmon Farmers Association has expressed disappointment and concern over the delayed release of the draft Transition Framework from the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO).
Salmon farming licence holders were informed earlier this week that the draft’s release, initially expected sooner, could be postponed until September 2024.
Brian Kingzett, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association, highlighted the uncertainty faced by rural coastal communities and employees reliant on salmon farming since the transition commitment was first announced in 2019.
“The ongoing delays and decisions made by the federal government continue to cause concern and stress on these families and communities as they do not know what the future holds for them,” Kingzett said.
The DFO announced an unrealistic timeline for full transition on June 19, 2024, which, according to Kingzett, undermines the federal government’s commitment to science-based decision-making, the restoration of wild salmon populations, support for UNDRIP and rural coastal communities, growth of Canada’s Blue Economy, increased food security, and support for young Canadians.
Kingzett emphasized that the sector has submitted extensive documentation to the federal government over the past few years to show its commitment to the transition process.
He added that the delay in releasing the draft Transition Framework would further challenge the sector’s ability to meet the already demanding timeline set by DFO.
Despite the challenges, the BC Salmon Farmers Association remains hopeful that the federal government’s draft transition framework will offer a responsible and achievable path forward.
The BC Salmon Farmers Association represents over 60 businesses and organizations throughout the value chain of finfish aquaculture in BC, accounting for over 95% of the annual provincial harvest of farm-raised salmon in British Columbia.
