1.4: Aquaculture Governance
Seek opportunities to create the conditions for the development of an environmentally sustainable, internationally competitive
aquaculture industry in Canada.
Other Information:
Canada has enormous potential to be a world aquaculture leader. Strengths include extensive coastlines and productive marine
and freshwater resources, a reputation for quality products, proximity to established and growing markets, an effective and
efficient transportation infrastructure, an internationally reputable food inspection system, a skilled workforce and strong
management expertise. However, obstacles, such as a cumbersome regulatory framework and trade barriers, keep Canada from realizing
its potential. Following the federal government's emphasis on regulatory streamlining, DFO will ensure that the regulations
for aquaculture are effective and cost-efficient, while providing for accountability and transparency. Science-based and
risk-based decision-making will also be part of this approach, in keeping with the Aquaculture Policy Framework.DFO will work
toward developing a more integrated government response to emerging aquaculture opportunities and challenges through stronger
collaboration with federal, provincial and territorial partners. Together with these partners, DFO will establish a Framework
Agreement on Aquaculture (FAA). The objectives of the FAA are to clarify roles and responsibilities, establish common goals
and standards for environmental monitoring, compliance and reporting, share databases, negotiate cost-sharing arrangements
for joint programs and establish a framework for bilateral agreements. Public concerns about contaminants, diseases and overall
healthiness of food (e.g., BSE, avian influenza, contaminants, and genetically modified foods) have consumers seeking assurances
regarding the safety of their food supply. In concert with a strong communications approach, DFO will work with the aquaculture
industry and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to build credible systems for assuring the quality and safety of farmed seafood
products. These will include such things as quality assurance and control, traceability and on-farm food safety. Finally,
DFO will promote increased public and consumer confidence by undertaking and publicizing measures to support the safety of
aquaculture products and the environmental sustainability of aquaculture operations.
Indicator(s):
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