2021 R28 – Reconsideration of Process to Phase Out Discovery Islands Fish Farms

Whereas aquaculture is an important economic driver for the Province of British Columbia, particularly on Vancouver Island;

And whereas the federal government’s decision to phase out existing salmon farming facilities in the Discovery Islands by June 30, 2022, creates financial, economic and social damages to workers, families, businesses and communities on Vancouver Island, across British Columbia and beyond:

Therefore be it resolved that UBCM urge the Province to lobby the federal government to reconsider the process of phasing out salmon farms in the Discovery Islands area of BC and meet with industry and local government representatives immediately to begin a meaningful dialogue to minimize the damage of the Discovery Islands decision and chart a course for the future of the BC salmon farming industry.