The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), made the following statement about World Oceans Day on June 8, 2022:
"Today, we celebrate the United Nations' World Oceans Day and give pause to this year's theme, Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean.
"Atlantic Canadians have a strong connection to the ocean, even those who live in communities founded on forestry and agriculture.
"So it is no surprise the ocean economy has been a vital part of our region's story for a very long time, and that it will remain a key pillar of our economy for decades to come.
"From traditional industries such as commercial fisheries and shipbuilding to new and emerging ones such as marine biotechnology and ocean mapping, Atlantic Canada's oceans businesses provide stable, well-paying jobs, while strengthening our food security and fuelling long-term prosperity for our coastal communities.
"Atlantic Canada makes up 50% of Canada's coastlines and is home to 60% of Canada's ocean technology businesses. Ocean-related GDP growth in the Atlantic region is projected to increase from $19 billion in 2018 to $24 billion by 2030.
"Because of the success of our industries, of our strategic geographic position, of the expertise of our workers, I am convinced that Atlantic Canadians will continue to play a leading role in growing Canada's ocean economy. With a strong network of programs, of research and development, ocean organizations, established companies and emerging enterprises, our region is well positioned to help pair economic growth with ocean conservation and climate action.
"Our economy depends on the health of our oceans. That is why the Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, will continue to make strategic investments in ocean-based enterprises and activities.
"On this World Oceans Day, we reiterate our engagement in protecting and preserving our oceans. We must do this for the health of our planet and to continue to protect and to create well-paying jobs, and opportunities that will benefit future generations."
