Canada at last unveils draft BC transition plan

The Canadian Federal Government has finally published its transition plans to end open pen farming in British Columbia.

The move comes almost five years since it first said it would formulate a transition policy. It then said in June that a scheme was on its way but that was further delayed.

The plan outlines how the government intends to move forward with support for First Nations, communities and workers that depend on the industry.

It says its aim is to make British Columbia a world leader in “innovative and clean aquaculture technology”.

The Ottawa government has come under strong criticism from the industry and some first nation groups who want traditional salmon farming to remain.

Other first nations groups support the government, claiming that open pen farming is a threat to wild salmon on which they depend.

The BC Salmon Farmers Association, which represents more than 60 businesses, said at the weekend it had received the draft transition framework and would now take the necessary time to review it.

Its statement continued: “Our sector has submitted thousands of pages of documentation to the federal government to show its commitment to this process, and our hope is that these efforts are reflected in the draft transition framework.

“However, we continue to stress that the timeline for the transition to closed containment by 2029 is unrealistic, unachievable and risks significant negative impacts on our sector and the communities that depend on it.

“We remain committed to evolving responsibly in partnership and or agreement with First Nations in whose territories we operate to enhance wild salmon recovery efforts, support self-determination and the path of reconciliation with BC First Nations, reduce any potential risks from farming, foster economic growth in rural and coastal communities, drive technological innovation and development and build a thriving Blue Economy in BC.

It added: “We will have more to say in the coming days as we review the draft Transition Framework in more detail.”