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House Bill

Bill C-258

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
March 04, 2022
An Act to amend the Fisheries Act (closed containment aquaculture)
  • Bill C-258 is an amendment to the Fisheries Act in Canada. It prohibits the commercial use of finfish aquaculture in Canadian fisheries waters off the Pacific Coast, unless it is done in closed containment facilities. Closed containment facilities are solid wall structures onshore or offshore that prevent fish, parasites, waste, and pollutants from escaping into the surrounding marine systems. The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans is required to create a plan to support the transition to closed containment facilities and protect the jobs and financial security of workers in the sector. This plan will include measures such as training and income support through the employment insurance system.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • One steelman argument in favor of Bill C-258 is that it promotes sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices. By requiring finfish aquaculture to be carried out in closed containment facilities, the bill prevents fish and their parasites, as well as waste and pollutants, from escaping into the surrounding marine systems. This helps protect the ecosystem and prevent potential harm to wild fish populations and habitats. Closed containment facilities also allow for better control and monitoring of water quality, reducing the need for antibiotics and chemicals commonly used in open-net pen aquaculture. This can lead to healthier and safer seafood products for consumers. Additionally, the bill includes a transitional plan to support workers and corporations in the finfish aquaculture sector affected by the transition to closed containment facilities, protecting their jobs and financial security. This ensures a fair and just transition,

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman argument opposing Bill C-258: While the intention of Bill C-258 to promote closed containment aquaculture may seem commendable, it fails to consider the potential negative consequences and challenges associated with such a transition. Firstly, the requirement for all finfish aquaculture in Canadian fisheries waters off the Pacific Coast to be carried out in closed containment facilities disregards the potential benefits of open net-pen aquaculture. Open net-pens have been successfully used for years and have contributed significantly to global food production. Banning this method outright may result in a loss of production capacity and hinder the ability to meet the increasing demand for fish products. Additionally, transitioning to closed containment facilities would require a significant investment of resources, including capital, infrastructure, and technology. Many small-scale fish farming operations may not have the fina
House First Reading
  • March 4, 2022, 10 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read