FIN IN THE HOUSE: We must move to protect BC's wild salmon now

Mr. Fin Donnelly (New Westminster—Coquitlam, NDP):

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in the House to introduce a Bill that aims to strengthen the Fisheries Act by requiring fish farm operations on BC's West Coast to move to closed containment.

The Bill directs the Fisheries Minister to develop, table and implement a transition plan, outlining how fish farm operations would make that move.

Mr. Speaker, The plan must ensure that those currently working in the industry will be protected during this transition.

Mr. Speaker, New Democrats believe environmental protection not only can, but must coexist with economic prosperity. In fact, British Columbia's and indeed Canada’s well-being depends on it."

Mr. Speaker, the idea for this Bill came from Thea Block a 16 year old student from Glenlyon Norfolk Secondary School in Victoria. It was her winning entry, in my colleague's - the honourable member from Victoria - ‘Create Your Canada’ contest, which was held late last year.

Mr. Speakek, last summer, Thea worked on a fish boat with her Dad. They run a small fish operation that relies on healthy wild salmon.

Thea wants future generations to be able to enjoy wild salmon just like she, and so many others, have. She doesn't want it spoiled because we didn't take steps to protect BC’s wild salmon.

Mr. Speaker, amending the Fisheries Act and moving to closed containment is a step toward ensuring our wild salmon will remain healthy for generations to come. I hope all members of the House will join with me in supporting this Bill.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker