P.E.I. oyster fishery looking at quality issues

P

By Andy Walker

SOU’WESTER

Prince Edward Island Fisheries Minister Allan Campbell has asked his department to meet with oyster harvesters and dealers to discuss concerns about the quality of oysters produced in the province. "Maintaining and strengthening the international reputation of Malpeque oysters is a major priority," said Campbell. "While I am confident that we continue to market a high quality product, I take very seriously any concerns that are expressed which question the quality of that product."

There have been recent news reports that have raised questions about the size and shape of some oysters shipped from the province. Rodney Clark, the owner of Rodney’s Oyster Bar in Toronto, has indicated the number of top grade oysters coming to his establishment has declined in recent years.

Campbell said he will be discussing the concerns about product quality with the industry and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to determine what steps should be taken to address them. He said the oyster industry has worked hard over the years to establish its reputation and added if additional measures are needed to improve quality, he is confident the industry will respond.

Campbell said his department is already working closely with harvesters to improve quality. The department provides ongoing support to the Prince Edward Island Shellfish Association for oyster enhancement projects on public fishing grounds. Earlier this year, the department introduced a new oyster quality aquaculture program to help leaseholders adopt new technologies and techniques to increase production and improve quality on leases. "It is vitally important that we continue to meet the demands of the marketplace in a positive and responsible manner," said Campbell. "There is growing competition in the marketplace, and we must ensure that we continue to maintain and strengthen the quality of our product."

The landed value of the Prince Edward Island oyster industry is approximately $7 million. There are about 700 active oyster fishers. Between 20 and 30 percent of landings are from aquaculture leases, and the remainder are from the public fishery.