As was mentioned, it was a draft transition plan. We were well aware that the work had to continue, including working even more closely with partners, such as the provincial government, if we want to move from an on-water approach to a land-based approach.

We see what is happening right now in the provinces, especially in British Columbia. That is why, as soon as the plan is in place, we will be working with the provinces to develop a more detailed plan. At least we've established a time frame, and discussions are ongoing. It was important for the industry, at least, to know whether or not it should invest in transition plans to move to a land-based approach.

According to some of the discussions I've had with representatives of aquaculture companies, the banks are extremely reluctant to invest in this area. It's very possible. That is why it is important to continue to hold discussions. There may be aquaculture sites that are just going to close, and then aquaculture could be done elsewhere. That's why there are discussions from west to east. In the east, aquaculture is under provincial jurisdiction, and some provinces have said they are ready to develop aquaculture on the Atlantic side.

Discussions will continue. We'll keep you posted on that. How the transition will take place is another consideration. There will be closures, but Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada will take care of that. So someone else is looking into it to see how things can be done.

We know there are jobs associated with this project. It puts people to work in a community. We know how, in the fisheries sector, any fishing closure has an impact on the community. When you impact fisheries, you're impacting people's bread and butter. This is always a very hot topic, which is why it is important to work with all stakeholders in the community.

Diane Lebouthillier

$429,336.00