HALIFAX - Nova Scotia's fisheries minister is facing sharp criticism for suggesting that a recent viral outbreak at a fish farm is just a routine part of the aquaculture business.
Asked about the outbreak of infectious salmon anemia at a Cooke Aquaculture operation in Shelburne Harbour, Sterling Belliveau said yesterday -- quote -- it's just a normal business day.
Rob Johnson of the Halifax-based Ecology Action Centre says Belliveau's comments show he's ill-informed and irresponsible.
He says the virus could be spread to wild Atlantic salmon, which are already an endangered species.
Belliveau stressed the virus poses no threat to human health.
He also says there's no effect on the traditional fishing industry.
Nell Halse, a spokeswoman for Cooke Aquaculture, says the outbreak is a part of farming.
She also says there's no evidence the virus poses a threat to wild salmon.
