The Official Opposition is welcoming the renewal of the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, a program that has successfully supported innovation, infrastructure and growth in Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishing and seafood processing industries since 2017 under a former provincial Liberal Government.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund is a joint federal and provincial contribution program designed to help the seafood sector respond to changing market demands, develop new products and technologies, and improve sustainability and productivity.
Despite the program’s importance to Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishing industry, no funding had been allocated for it in this year’s provincial budget. During the Estimates process following Budget 2026, Liberal MHAs questioned this budget decision and called on the PC Government to provide funding for the Atlantic Fisheries Fund.
Opposition Fisheries Critic Elvis Loveless says “the program provides important support for an industry that remains vital to communities and the economy throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
“This is good news for our fishing and seafood processing industries. We called for continued support for the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, and we are pleased to see this vital program continue. It helps our industry innovate, improve infrastructure and create opportunities for growth, and that support is important to the future of our fishery,” says Loveless.
The Official Opposition looks forward to learning more about the program and what it will mean for fish harvesters, processors and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.
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