The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) announced plans to invest over $2.5 million over four years in fisheries research and training in Nunavut, Canada.
The funding was announced today by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and the Minister responsible for CanNor.
CanNor is funding a 4-year fisheries research project off the coast of Baffin Island conducted by the Nunavut Fisheries Association, Canada, to examine the commercial viability of porcupine crab, expand research into offshore and inshore turbot, investigate the stock's patterns and explore better trawling technology.
CanNor is also supporting the development of an inshore turbot fishery in Qikiqtarjuaq, Canada. Experienced fishermen from Pangnirtung will provide practical training for Qikiqtarjuaq fishers. The funding also goes toward building a large walk-in energy efficient community freezer powered by green technology to hold harvested fish.
"The Government of Canada has long supported the development of the fisheries sector in the North. By providing investments in research, training and infrastructure, we are helping to grow an industry worth millions and provide employment to those living in Northern communities," says Navdeep Bains, minister of innovation, science and economic development, CanNor.
"Science and research is the backbone of fisheries development and sustainability. The Nunavut Fisheries Association (NFA) appreciates CanNor’s ongoing support for our research initiatives and its commitment to a multi-year research program. The NFA is committed to the growth and development of the Nunavut fishery and increasing employment and socio-economic benefits for Nunavummiut," adds Lootie Toomasie, associate chair, Nunavut Fisheries Association.
Since its creation, CanNor has invested more than $8 million in exploratory fisheries research and feasibility studies in the North. This has resulted in an increase in Northern fisheries quotas and expanded the development of the industry.
