July 10, 2017 Corner Brook NL—Mr. Bill Barry of the Barry Group Inc. and Chief Brendan Mitchell of the Qalipu First Nation today announced plans to move forward as partners on negotiations with the federal government concerning the future management and reallocation of a fully recovered ocean perch resource adjacent to our shores.  The scale of this resource is unprecedented in Canadian history. The announcement included plans for the establishment of a new processing plant in the Bay of Islands and another contemplated to be located in Port aux Basques.

Representatives of the provincial and federal government shared in the announcement and brought greetings from their respective areas.  The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador; The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard; the Honourable Eddie Joyce, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment and MHA for Humber-Bay of Islands; The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources; Gudie Hutchings, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains, and Mr. Arch Mitchell, Mayor of Humber Arm South.

Chief Mitchell spoke about the historic significance of fishing to Newfoundlanders and the positive economic impact the development will have on the region.  He said, “Fishing has long been an important part of our culture in this province, a mainstay of our traditional way of life.  Under this agreement, the Qalipu First Nation will administer licenses and quota which will allow for our management of this previously unfished species.  We look forward to the promise of economic benefits to our region as well as employment opportunities for indigenous people and communities.”

Mr. Barry spoke about the significance of the initiative which will include the establishment of two new processing plants by the Barry Group.  He also expressed appreciation for the encouragement and support of government for the initiative.   Mr. Barry said, “This is a historic initiative which will help shape the future prosperity of many communities in the Bay of Islands and Western Newfoundland.  It’s a proud day for members of the Qalipu First Nation and Barry Group.  We look forward to the growing significance of our new partnership in helping to ensure growth and prosperity in our province.  We applaud both our Provincial and Federal officials for their encouragement and support.”

Qalipu and their partner Barry Group Inc. will immediately begin to negotiate the path forward with federal officials.

Media Contact:

Alison White
Communications Officer
Qalipu First Nation
(709) 634-5163
awhite@qalipu.ca