The long awaited report from a multi party task force/committee on aquaculture was finally presented to the Provincial Legislature today.

We attach the initial press release below and will report on further developments as we attend the conferences that are presently underway. This, however, is the cutting edge.

The report recommends there be no fish farms North of Cape Caution. This area is just off the North tip of Vancouver Island and considered South and East of Smith Sound. To be more descriptive this area, called Cape Caution, is the first open water as a vessel travelling North leaves the protection of Vancouver Island, hence the name, we imagine.

AQUACULTURE COMMITTEE RELEASES FINAL REPORT

VICTORIA - The Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture has released its final report today. During the 18-month inquiry, the committee conducted an extensive public consultation process; travelled to 21 communities around the province; collected 814 written submissions; received testimony from over 80 expert witnesses; visited 16 sites; and commissioned an economic study of the wild and farmed salmon industries.

"Through the public consultation process, we heard a strong message: that the health of our wild salmon is paramount," said committee chair Robin Austin, MLA. "We have a unique opportunity to protect our wild salmon populations and marine ecosystems while developing a thriving, innovative aquaculture industry. I believe our recommendations reflect this."

The Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture made 52 recommendations; including:

A time referenced transition to ocean-based closed containment, to be implemented with transition assistance and incentives for the industry; No fish farms north of Cape Caution; Changes in the monitoring and regulatory frameworks to prevent perceptions of self policing; A provincially supported pro-active marketing strategy that will promote the evolving industry; Locations designated for shellfish aquaculture that minimize competition with residential and recreational use.

The members of the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture are: Robin Austin, MLA (Skeena), Chair Ron Cantelon, MLA (Nanaimo-Parksville), Deputy Chair Gary Coons, MLA (North Coast) Scott Fraser, MLA (Alberni-Qualicum) Al Horning, MLA ( Kelowna-Lake Country) Daniel Jarvis, MLA (North Vancouver-Seymour) Gregor Robertson, MLA (Vancouver-Fairview) Shane Simpson, MLA (Vancouver-Hastings) Claire Trevena, MLA (North Island) John Yap, MLA (Richmond-Steveston)