Herring Plant Works Through Season
Shelburne County's largest employer will maintain its herring fish operation for the rest of the traditional season, thanks to a provincial investment.
Sable Fish Packers (1998) Ltd.'s processing line was in jeopardy earlier this year, due to a worldwide downturn in herring prices. A $4-million loan from Economic Development and Tourism will now ensure the plant continues operating.
"Without this assistance, it's doubtful if Sable would have operated the herring plant this year at all," said Brian Blades, owner of Sable Fish Packers. "We hope the herring market and supply will strengthen in the near future."
The current price fluctuation in herring is nothing new to the industry and is considered to be cyclical. When prices rebound, the company will be well positioned to take advantage and the province will share in pretax profits. Repayment of a portion of the loan is based on profitability.
The investment is especially good news for 200 part-time employees who can count on work until the end of November. "Without the plant running this year, it would be devastating for the community," said Jill Smith, a clerk at the plant.
The plant's importance for the local economy extends beyond immediate employment.
"This is an investment in Nova Scotia's workforce," said Clifford Huskilson, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, making the announcement on behalf of Manning MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "Sable Fish Packers is a vital employer in Shelburne County, creating spinoff work in the region besides the specialized jobs at the plant."
Sable Fish Packers has been one of the mainstays of Shelburne County's fishing sector for the past 50 years. Although sales were $9.9 million last year, down from $13.3 million in 1996, Mr. Blades said he believes the company will turn the corner with the new funding. Sales for 1998 are projected to be $10.5 million. In addition to the herring line, the company also processes other species on a smaller scale year-round.