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First Nations get boost in aquaculture
Melissa Fryer
A $2.25-million grant from the B.C. government to the Malaspina University-College Foundation will help provide training and jobs in the aquaculture industry for First Nations people.
The money will go towards the college’s Shellfish Research Centre to work with coastal communities on new initiatives, and provide training opportunities for people in those communities.
First Nations leaders said this will help their communities develop their economies around shellfish aquaculture.
“Historically, many of us First Nations have been fishermen for hundreds and hundreds of years,” said Snuneymuxw band councillor Jeffery Thomas. “With the fish stocks, very few of us fish anymore, including myself.”
The centre’s First Nations Shellfish Aquaculture Training program offers 16 courses, including business management and beach management. It’s expected to train up to 500 First Nations and coastal residents over the next five years.
First Nations involvement in aquaculture began in 1998 and since then more than half of all coastal First Nations are involved in the shellfish industry, said Nanaimo-Parksville MLA Ron Cantelon.
“First Nations are emerging as key players in this industry,” said Cantelon, who made the announcement at the centre Monday morning. “This is all helping to provide skills and training.”
Penny White became involved in aquaculture five years ago and is now pursuing a master’s degree in the field. She plans to encourage others to get into aquaculture as she sees the potential for First Nations people.
“The shellfish industry is a key to our economic success,” White said.
Regional Chief Shawn Atleo said the new funding is representative of the new relationship between the provincial government and First Nations people.
“It’s about recognizing the assets that we have and bringing those to the table,” Atleo said.
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