CHARLOTTETOWN - The branding of Prince Edward Island seafood would not only allow fishermen and seafood handlers to take their futures into their own hands, it would also benefit all residents of the Island, says a local fisherman.
Ellerslie area lobster fisherman Eric Wagner said it only makes sense for the people who produce the seafood to control how it is handled, packaged and sold.
Wagner, who has so far brought together about 60 Island fishermen to form P.E.I. Premium Seafood Inc., said he would like to see many more invest in the company.
He said the company's mission is to allow local people to take control of the industry at all levels and help bring recognition of Prince Edward Island seafood to consumers around the world.
Wagner said the decision to create the company was formed partly out of frustration about having no control of products once they leave P.E.I.
''Once it leaves the bridge it becomes a product of Canada,'' said Wagner.
Wagner said the branding could be very beneficial to other industries such as tourism because it would help bring more worldwide recognition for the province.
