In an opinion editorial printed in today's Courier-Islander, Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association responds to recent comments made about BC fish farms.
Ms. Walling points out the importance of salmon farming to BC stating "One of the few industries that have continued to employ people, and to generate opportunities, is salmon farming."
She reminds readers that "to be successful we must do a number of things. We must farm the seas responsibly. The marine environment is our greatest asset and we have instituted strict protocols to protect BC's water. We must also ensure that we operate in full compliance with a set of regulations that is more comprehensive that those of any other producing jurisdiction."
Ms. Walling finishes with the following perspective:
"Anyone who is interested in salmon, interested in sustaining jobs for working men and women and protecting our marine environment should be working to find solutions. Here on the Island we need to work hard to find and create sustainable jobs. I firmly believe that salmon farming does - and will continue to - play a critical role in supporting healthy viable communities on Vancouver Island."
