June 20th, 2014 NEW BRUNSWICK—

Twelve N.B. Aboriginals have completed a comprehensive and innovative aquaculture technician program. Participants have been trained in both fin and shell fish species, a National first.

The students of the Taan Totjo Nemeetjogoen Ogtjit Mimatjoagan – To Go Fishing for a Living (TTNOM) program from Elsipogtog, Eel River Bar, Esgenoopetitj, Eel Ground, and Metepenagiag First Nations have completed a detailed 39-week program coordinated by North Shore Micmac District Council’s Aboriginal Aquatic Resources and Oceans Management. The training was delivered in partnership with the Marine Training Centre at Holland College. The diverse skills development included workplace essential skills, marine biology, Aquaculture hatchery operations, alternate species and business management. Several Transport Canada certifications required for the Aquaculture industry were also attained by all participants.

Chief George Ginnish, President and CEO of NSMDC, says the organization welcomed the opportunity to work with strong partners in order to offer this program to its member communities and other First Nations in New Brunswick. “NSMDC is proud to play such a vital capacity development role designed to enhance the self-sufficiency of Aboriginal fishers to efficiently and safely manage their fishing operations, and we are particularly excited to honor the first graduates with customized Aquaculture Technician certifications in Finfish and Shellfish, the first training program of its kind in Canada.” he said.

Other partners who have been instrumental in helping students get their feet wet in an industry with tremendous potential and growth include the Miramichi Salmon Association, New Brunswick Community College and Breviro Caviar Inc. The Aquaculture Technician program was made possible with funds from the Government of Canada’s Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF).

For more information, or to set up interviews, please contact:   Pam Ward NSMDC AAROM Training Coordinator Phone: 506-627-2730 Email: pamward@nbnet.nb.ca