Grieg Seafood is removing its salmon farms from Sechelt Inlet at the request of the shíshálh Nation.
The company says it’s recognizing and honouring the rights of First Nations to determine what aquaculture development they choose for their Nation.
Grieg had eight seawater licenses in shíshálh Nation territory on the Sunshine Coast, but six of the farms were inactive because they were older and smaller and difficult to farm due to location.
Grieg Seafood says the plan is to finish decommissioning the fish farms in Sechelt Inlet by early 2023.
In a statement on its website, Grieg says after talks lasting several months, the shíshálh Nation decided to remove salmon farms from its territory.
shíshálh Nation says the decision marks an important step forward.
“We commend Grieg Seafoods for working co-operatively with shíshálh Nation through the decision making process,” said shíshálh Nation in a press release.
“Consent-based decision making, one aspect of implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, is a step forward and an important part of how decisions are made in the shíshálh swiya.
“shíshálh worked tirelessly to restore salmon populations and protect fish habitat.”
The company plans to shift production to Grieg Seafood’s other locations.
Greig says there will be no layoffs and its harvesting targets will not be affected.
