Funding secured for three new initiatives in Nova Scotia

YARMOUTH, NS – The Nova Scotia Fisheries Sector Council (NSFSC) says funding has been secured for three new projects that will benefit the fishing industry in Nova Scotia.

A description of the three projects follows.

Eco-labeling/Certification Toolkit:

The N.S. Fisheries Sector Council has embarked upon a project to develop a toolkit/ “road map” for the fishing industry which will help to inform them of the requirements of eco-labelling and certification. It will attempt to answer some of the many questions surrounding this topic such as: What is Eco-labelling? Why do we need to consider Eco-labelling? What is the cost to industry? What is the process involved in having a product “certified to be from a sustainable source”? Who can perform this certification? What are other countries and competitors doing? What are customers demanding?

This project is expected to be completed and presented to industry for their use by spring 2009.

Nova Scotia Fisheries Symposium:

The NSFSC will host a Fisheries Symposium for the industry in Nova Scotia during the fall and winter months this year. This symposium will provide industry with relevant information to assist them in remaining competitive and to look at future options to increase competitiveness. Potential agenda items will focus on market challenges and opportunities, along with a focus on securing a future workforce. Dates and location to be announced.

Ocean Impact Study:

The NSFSC, in conjunction with federal and provincial government agencies, will conduct a study to estimate the economic value and importance of the ocean sector in Nova Scotia. This study will provide baseline data for measuring trends and growth in the ocean sector.

Funding for these initiatives has been made possible by the Government of Canada

The NSFSC is dedicated to planning and implementing human resource development strategies to attract new entrants to aquaculture, fish harvesting and processing careers, and promoting competitiveness and higher quality standards for seafood products.