HALIFAX (GNB) – Fishers, buyers, shippers and processors have endorsed a levy to support the marketing of Canadian lobster.

The agreement was reached during the Canadian Lobster Value Recovery Summit, which wrapped up today in Halifax. The event was hosted by the three Maritime fisheries ministers to discuss key recommendations from the Maritime Lobster Panel Report and was attended by more than 200 stakeholders.

Participants at the summit responded with support for a mechanism to collect a levy and provided clear direction for the three ministers to proceed.
 
“I am encouraged by the co-operation and collaboration shown by industry over the past two days,” said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Michael Olscamp. “We have received great feedback on a number of important issues that will allow the industry to move forward.”

The levy will support the creation of a generic marketing plan to promote Canadian lobster as a premium product around the world, the development of new markets as well as the collection and distribution of up-to-date and accurate market information to all stakeholders.

Several presenters from different seafood sectors spoke of how a levy benefitted their industry. Participants heard about Norway’s experience with a marketing levy. Norway  has become a leading supplier of seafood around the world.

Federal Fisheries and Oceans minister Gail Shea was the guest speaker at the summit.

“This summit is a terrific example of how industry can work together to make a difference in the lives of fishers and their communities,” said Shea.  “While our government is committed to helping fishers thrive, we also believe that industry must lead the drive for solutions."
 

27-03-14