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This article was originally published by The Guardian on May 8th, 2026. We are sharing the full text here for reference. All rights remain with the original publisher.

The federal government has announced nearly $12 million for programs designed to help P.E.I.’s oyster industry, which has been hit hard by the MSX and dermo diseases. PHOTO BY UNSPLASH.

Ottawa has announced millions of dollars in financial assistance for P.E.I.’s beleaguered oyster industry, both for those who hope to rebuild and those who want out altogether.

P.E.I.’s storied oyster sector has been hit hard by MSX and dermo since 2024. The diseases are caused by parasites which are harmless to humans but fatal to oysters. Those working in the industry have reported nearly 100 percent fatality of oysters in some areas. The losses are destroying years of work and putting livelihoods and ways of life that go back generations at risk.

The industry has been calling for federal assistance for some time now.

Now Ottawa has announced that it is investing nearly $12 million into various programs to help, mostly through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Fisheries and Oceans Canada directly.

“The oyster industry is facing serious challenges with MSX and Dermo. I have heard first-hand from the wild oyster industry about how these diseases are impacting their livelihoods,” said Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson.

“Wild oysters are an iconic species deeply tied to fishing traditions, communities and culture and I will continue to support the industry.”

Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson speaks during Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa April 15, 2026. PHOTO BY BLAIR GABLE/Postmedia.

Egmont MP Bobby Morrissey, who represents some of the hardest hit areas, said, “People around the world associate high-quality oysters with Prince Edward Island. As one of our premium exports, it has become an icon of our food economy, a beacon of tourism, and a source of great pride for our rural communities.

“That is why we are committed to a strong, long-term future for the industry.”

Source: The Guardian. Original article found here.