Westcoast Aquatic Management Association

Economic Partnership in Port Alberni

Port Alberni, BC – Dr. James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Alberni on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced Harper Government support to help Westcoast Aquatic Management strengthen economic opportunities in the city of Port Alberni.

“I’m pleased to announce our Government’s support of $1,259,747.00; provided through the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), to the Westcoast Aquatic Management Association – Economic Partnership program. It makes it even more enjoyable while we celebrate the grand opening of their new office located right here in Port Alberni” said Lunney. “Investments such as this are creating opportunities and protecting jobs where they are need most.”

The Westcoast Aquatic Management Association is retaining Community Coordinators to work individually and directly with the 15 communities of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations, located on the West Coast of Vancouver Island.

The primary objectives are the facilitation of community economic partnerships, resource planning assessment (with a priority focus on fisheries management and sector opportunities), and strategic sustainable economic development.

Activities include, but are not be limited to, the development of fisheries-related business priorities, technical and business skills training, development of technology assets and tools to better respond to capital investment opportunities. (i.e. GIS mapping resources). The development of community-specific marketing strategies and materials will proactively attract economic partners to the region. 

For further information visit Canada’s Economic Action Plan at www.actionplan.gc.ca.