Supports for Prince Edward Island Oyster Industry
The Government of Prince Edward Island is providing financial relief and mental health support to fishers, growers, and processors impacted by the emergence of MSX and Dermo in Island waters.
Oyster Growers Income Stabilization Program
The Oyster Growers Income Stabilization Program is designed to provide financial stability to eligible oyster growers who experience significant revenue declines due to the unforeseen, uncontrollable factors associated with MSX and/or Dermo, or market disruptions due to the arrival of MSX and Dermo in PEI. The goal of the program is to provide a financial safety net to eligible oyster growers when their current year’s aquaculture operation revenue falls below a defined historical average to support growers through this challenging period as they plan for their future.
Oyster Industry Interest Relief Program
The Oyster Industry Interest Relief Program is designed to provide financial relief for eligible fishers, growers, and processors who have experienced over 30% lost income in 2026 as a result of the discovery of MSX and Dermo in PEI waters.
Through Finance PEI and on behalf of eligible businesses, interest costs will be sent to lenders directly on behalf of eligible fishers, growers, and processors to help reduce their debt servicing pressure.
Contact your Finance PEI account manager, email oysterloans@gov.pe.ca, or call 902-368-6200.
Oyster Relief Wage Assistance Program
The Oyster Relief Wage Assistance Program is designed to help offset a portion of payroll costs related to increased sorting and handling requirements. The Program supports fishers, growers, and processors.
For information and to apply, call 1-877-491-4766.
Oyster Fishers Training Fund
The Oyster Fishers Training Fund will assist impacted fishers by providing funding for retraining opportunities. Through this fund, industry members can access financial aid to cover tuition and basic living expenses while participating in programs that help them transition to long-term, sustainable employment.
For information, and to apply, call 1-877-491-4766.
Mental Health
The Fisher Assistance Program and Aquaculture Farm Assistance Program provide confidential counselling services to the industry, their families, and employees. Confidential services are available free of charge 24 hours a day by calling a counselling coordinator (902) 894-8006 or toll-free 1-800-736-8006.