The enclosed is a statement from the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture:

“I am very happy to congratulate the Honourable Joanne Thompson on her appointment today as Federal Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.

Newfoundland and Labrador is home to pristine ocean waters, many of the finest, premium seafood products, and countless dedicated fishery workers who ensure the best quality products for consumers around the world.

This is a critical time in our history and I look forward to collaborating with Minister Thompson on the many issues and opportunities across this vital sector. Together, we will need to tackle challenges in our ocean and fisheries with greater collaboration between the two governments, including by working together towards joint management which recognizes the critical fisheries management principal of adjacency. With tremendous uncertainty in the marketplace and economy, we will also face difficult realities and must ensure supports are available if they are needed. This is a resilient and forward-looking sector and I look forward to seizing new opportunities together to innovate and grow as well as explore new global markets.

With Minister Thompson being from Newfoundland and Labrador, I also appreciate the important provincial perspective she will bring to the federal cabinet and welcome the recognition by the Federal Government of the importance of the fisheries here in this province.

I wish Minister Thompson great success in this critical role and I’m confident that together we will accomplish many excellent things for our fisheries and oceans.”

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