Queens County Partnering Funds Approved

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell is pleased to announce two projects that will improve the fishing industry in Queens County.

The projects will look at developing both a Jonah Crab fishery and harbour infrastructure in the area.

Combined funding for the projects will equal $14,000.

"The need for fisheries diversification and harbour improvements has come," says Mr. Colwell. "These projects are a step in helping communities in Queens County realize their potential."

The Jonah Crab resource located off the South Shore is an opportunity for fishermen and processors in the area to diversify. Seventeen commercial fishing permits could eventually be approved while processing capability is strong with two plants in the area.

Harbour infrastructure is also in need of improvement in small communities. Many wharves cannot handle repairs on more than one boat at a time causing unnecessary delays for lobster fishermen. A bigger wharf in Port L'Herbert will mean quicker repairs, less down time for fishermen, and more servicing jobs.

The projects were recommended by staff according to program criteria. Funding comes from the department's fisheries development programs while the rest comes from the applicant and other public sources.