CAMPBELL RIVER - The government is investing $1.5 million in a new centre for shellfish research at Malaspina University-College that will train students, attract high-quality researchers, improve the aquaculture industry's sustainability and boost the coastal economy.

John van Dongen, Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Minister, made the announcement today at the Pacific Aquaculture Exhibition on behalf of Advanced Education Minister Shirley Bond.

"We made a New Era commitment to increase access to post-secondary education, and we're also committed to a sound, sustainable aquaculture industry," van Dongen said. "This new centre will advance both of those goals."

The centre at Malaspina's main campus in Nanaimo will research the environmental and ecological impact of shellfish farming and aquaculture production. The centre will increase research capabilities in B.C. and encourage collaboration with other national and international research institutions.

"Having this world-class research done in our own backyard supports our goals for sustainable economic activity up and down the coast," said Nanaimo MLA Mike Hunter. "It's important to do the research where the industry has a strong presence."

"We're committed to revitalizing the economy, and this is one of the innovative ways we can create economic benefits for local communities," said North Island MLA Rod Visser. "This funding will have an immediate impact and will continue to pay off in the long term through a stronger industry."

The provincial funding comes from the B.C. Knowledge Development Fund, which provides capital funding for research equipment and facilities for public post-secondary institutions, teaching hospitals and affiliated non-profit agencies. Support for the $3.7-million centre is also being provided by the Canada Foundation for Innovation, Malaspina University-College, PRAquaLtd and NovaCulture.

"This is exciting and positive news for all of us, especially for our fisheries and aquaculture faculty and students," said Rich Johnston, president of Malaspina University-College. "The centre will allow us to attract scientific personnel to work with faculty and students on both large and small projects throughout the B.C. coast."

This week, the government also announced that it is investing $10 million to help build the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre at the University of B.C., creating new learning opportunities for people all across the province.

In addition to the learning centre, the government announced $67 million last month for 12 post-secondary capital projects across B.C. It also established a new Simon Fraser University campus in Surrey that will double the number of student spaces offered by the former TechBC.

Contact:

Nikki McCallum
Public Affairs Officer
(250) 356-8706