BC salmon farm ban faces backlash over US$9B economic cost  

CANADA – The Canadian government’s proposed ban on marine net-pen salmon farming in British Columbia is sparking intense debate, with a new report warning of severe economic, social, and environmental consequences. 

Commissioned by the BC Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA) and compiled by RIAS, the report estimates the ban could cost Canadian taxpayers at least US$9 billion, primarily to compensate for sector closure and subsidise alternative technologies.  

The report outlines staggering annual losses, including US$1.17 billion in economic activity, US$435 million in GDP, and US$133.6 million in revenues for First Nations communities. 

The ban also threatens 4,560 full-time jobs across Canada and would reduce farmed salmon production by 50,000 tonnes annually.  

“This decision is reckless and ignores both science and economic reality,” stated Brian Kingzett, Executive Director of BCSFA. He emphasised the need for a transition plan that supports the salmon farming sector rather than a rapid ban, which he claims is unrealistic and harmful.  

Indigenous leaders are raising significant concerns about the social costs to their communities. 

Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, Dallas Smith, spokesperson for the Coalition of First Nations for Finfish Stewardship, criticised the federal government for undermining the rights and self-determination of coastal First Nations.  

“You cannot cut a cheque for the damage that will occur to Indigenous communities. Suicides, overdoses, poverty, and the loss of our rights are all inevitable if salmon farming partners are forced to leave BC,” said Smith.  

The Coalition urges Ottawa to let Rightsholder First Nations lead the transition of salmon farming in their territories, warning that neglecting these communities will lead to irreversible harm.  

BC salmon farmers argue that innovative solutions, not outright bans, must address sustainability concerns.

The sector is open to implementing alternative technologies that align with the unique characteristics of BC’s coastal regions and the goals of Indigenous stakeholders.  

“Mandating a transition to unproven technologies in a short time frame ignores our willingness to adopt innovations that achieve the same outcome,” added Kingzett.  

Critics of the ban also dispute claims that salmon farms significantly harm wild Pacific salmon. They assert that peer-reviewed studies have consistently found that salmon farming poses minimal risk to wild populations.  

The BCSFA and Indigenous leaders are urging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to reconsider the transition plan, proposing a no-cost-to-taxpayers alternative that minimises harm to the sector and coastal communities.  

“This is an opportunity for the government to pivot in a positive direction,” said Smith. “We are part of the solution.” 

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