Fisheries and Oceans

The committee met to study the publication of a Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) report describing ecosystem features and human uses in four offshore wind energy areas in Nova Scotia. Appearing were Bernard Vigneault, Director General of Ecosystem Science; Luke Gaulton, Director of Oceans and Aquaculture Management for the Maritimes Region; and Wendy Williams, Regional Director of Aquatic Ecosystems for the Maritimes Region.

Bernard Vigneault explained that the report, published in December 2025, was a compendium of existing DFO data—such as fishery landings, species detections, and mapping products—intended to inform stakeholders and regulators during a call for information. He stressed it was not a science advisory document, did not assess the suitability of the areas for offshore wind, and did not evaluate risks to the marine ecosystem or fisheries. He noted that additional analysis would be needed for project-specific assessments, and that DFO is conducting separate, NRCan-funded research to address data gaps, including on migratory species and marine mammals.

Luke Gaulton clarified that the report was produced in anticipation of information needs from regulators and the fishing industry, and that DFO has an MOU with the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator to provide data. He stated that the report does not make claims about the suitability of the areas for wind development, and that further consultation with the fishing industry and separate impact assessments will occur before any projects proceed. He also noted that DFO’s Marxan analysis of fishing areas, which involved industry consultation, was included in the report.

Wendy Williams confirmed that the report was not intended to assess risks from offshore wind, as that would be addressed in future impact assessments led by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada. She stated that DFO’s role is to provide information and data into the process, not to offer opinions on project suitability. She denied any political pressure to narrow the report’s scope, adding that DFO continues to engage in discussions on fisheries compensation and will provide further information as the process advances.

During questioning, witnesses disagreed with suggestions that the report was incomplete or that it omitted historical fishery data; Vigneault argued the report’s methodology focused on recent landings and that historical data would need separate discussion. On the precautionary principle, Vigneault said it was not relevant to this factual compendium but would apply to future regulatory decisions. Regarding data gaps, Vigneault identified ongoing work on fish stocks, migratory species, and species at risk, including North Atlantic right whales, as priorities.

The meeting included procedural debate over whether the committee had received all documents requested under the motion, particularly the initial request for the report. The clerk noted three documents were provided under that category, but members argued a formal request document was missing. After discussion, the committee agreed to continue, and a motion was passed requesting that DFO provide in writing the data gaps identified and how they were determined.