— August 17, 2022 —
The event will include the release of a new study commissioned by ACFFA: Gender-Based Opportunities and Challenges in Salmonid Farming in Atlantic Canada which examines gender equity throughout Atlantic Canada’s salmon farming value chain. The Women of Salmon Farming Symposium, which will be held in conjunction with ACFFA’s annual Research, Science and Technology Forum, will be held virtually and in-person in St. Andrews NB on October 25-27, 2022.
“The study is basically a ‘state of the nation’ on gender equity in salmon farming in Atlantic Canada, and the Symposium will bring men and women together to discuss both the opportunities for women in the salmon farming sector and the steps needed to bring more gender equity to our industry,” said Susan Farquharson, Executive Director of the Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association.
While the report won’t be released until the fall, Farquharson said the study found that the salmon farming sector compares similarly to other animal protein producing industries when it comes to overall gender parity. Although the report found that more progress is needed to improve female participation and close the pay equity gap, Atlantic Canada leads the country in overall gender parity in our sector, she said.
“This report gives us a clear picture of where we are now and will serve as the foundation of discussions at the Symposium,” said Farquharson. “I encourage anyone who works in our sector, especially those who may not have participated in our Fall Forum in the past, to attend either in person or virtually. Voices from every part of our sector are needed for a fulsome and productive discussion that will lead to actionable recommendations in this area.”
The full conference agenda as well as online registration details will be released in September.
Schedule Overview:
Tuesday evening, October 25
Ask Your Voice®: The Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea (in-person only)
Join opera singer and communications expert Marie Terese Letorney for a lively and interactive session that will teach you to communicate more effectively with impact and confidence. This fun and informative session is not to be missed!
Wednesday, October 26
Women in Salmon Farming Symposium – Huntsman Marine Science Centre (virtual and in-person)
Join us for the release of Gender-Based Opportunities and Challenges in Salmonid Farming in Atlantic Canada, the first study of its kind to look at gender equity throughout Atlantic Canada’s salmon farming value chain. The agenda includes a keynote speaker, facilitated sessions and a panel discussion. This is an important and timely discussion that will help our sector evolve by understanding labour challenges and harnessing opportunities.
ACFFA Gala Fundraising Dinner – The Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea – In-person only
We’ll raise money for a community cause and present our Atlantic Canada Aquaculture Award as well as highlight the role women play in our sector.
Thursday, October 27
Research, Science and Technology Sessions – Huntsman Marine Science Centre (virtual and in-person)
Don’t miss these sessions featuring the latest research and innovation in our sector, including the release of our GHG Emissions Calculation and Predictive Model for Atlantic Canada Salmon Aquaculture.
For more information, please contact:
Susan Farquharson, Executive Director
Ph: 506-755-3526
Email: info@atlanticfishfarmers.com
