The Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec recognize the economic and cultural significance of the fish and seafood sector to many of their coastal communities. The sector provides close to 7,000 jobs in Quebec, and its fish and seafood exports were valued at over $416 million in 2018.

"This first project under the Quebec Fisheries Fund, an historic agreement between the Governments of Canada and Quebec, will help transform and boost innovation in the fish and seafood sector. This fund will help create good jobs for the middle class, and growth and investment opportunities for businesses in communities in the Magdalen Islands and throughout Quebec."

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

"The test project of the eco-friendly drag "N-viro" is promising in more than one way. Firstly, for its ability to reduce fuel costs but also for its technical characteristics that protect the seabed and species, and its capacity of limiting bycatch. Conclusive tests could lead to the use of this new machine that will promote new, more environmentally friendly practices here in the Magdalen Islands and elsewhere in Quebec.

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie–Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of National Revenue

"The Quebec Fisheries Fund is a great tool that allows a transition to more eco-responsible fishing equipment and demonstrates the industry's concern to preserve our oceans and seabed. The development of environmentally friendly fishing is part of our vision for the future, and reflects the expectations of today's consumers. I congratulate the Association des pêcheurs de pétoncles des Îles-de-la-Madeleine for being proactive and for taking to heart the sustainable development of the Quebec fisheries sector."

Mr. André Lamontagne, Quebec Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

• This is a pilot project that will test the "N-viro", an eco-friendly drag that was developed in Scotland in recent years.

• Trials will be conducted on three seabeds with different characteristics.

• The project, which will contribute to the sustainability of the scallop fishery in the Magdalen Islands and elsewhere in Quebec, will also serve as a showcase and a starting point to optimize the implementation of new sustainable practices related to fishing gear.

Associated links

• QFF home page
• Funding application
• The Quebec Fisheries Fund is now accepting proposals to boost innovation in the Quebec fish and seafood sector
• Federal Strategy on Innovation and Growth for the Quebec Regions

Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613‑990‑7537
Media.xncr@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Jocelyn Lubczuk
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
343‑548‑7863
Jocelyn.lubczuk@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
418‑648‑5474
media.qc@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

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