News Release

VAL-COMEAU (GNB) – The combination of an investment and the lease of 2.7 hectares of Crown land is allowing Les Pêcheries de Chez-Nous to grow and stimulate economic development in Val-Comeau.

“Your government is committed to creating the conditions for job creation and economic development in all parts of New Brunswick,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “Investment in improved efficiencies will help New Brunswick businesses increase exports of seafood products around the world while creating jobs for New Brunswickers.”

The company has leased land at the site of the former Club aquatique de Val-Comeau, which had been vacant since 2010. The construction of a lobster pound will enable the company to accommodate surplus lobster, stabilizing supply and production.

“I applaud Les Pêcheries de Chez-Nous for seeing the potential in a parcel of vacant land,” said Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle. “The vision of companies like this, in partnership with government, will help move New Brunswick forward.”

Rousselle spoke on behalf of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet.

Opportunities NB is contributing $250,000 through the Regional Development Corporation to support the $2.3-million project. It is expected to improve the company’s efficiency and add up to 105 seasonal jobs.

“The provincial government’s targeted programs and the hard work of our production line workers are the two pillars of our company’s success”, said François Benoit, executive director of Les Pêcheries de Chez-Nous.

The company began operating in 2000 and processes nearly eight million pounds of lobster annually. In June 2016 it was purchased by Thai Union Canada Inc. Its parent company, Thai Union Group Inc., has operations in several countries and annual sales of $5 billion.

Opportunities NB is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. It provides support services for businesses across the province.