The former President of the FFAW is ready to take on plans to establish a marine protected area on the province’s south coast as he assumes his new role as Executive Director of the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association.

Keith Sullivan is no stranger to fighting for the rights of rural communities.

He says there are a number of issues facing the local aquaculture industry, not the least of which is growing opposition from environmental activists.

He points to proposed plans to establish a huge marine protected area on the province’s south coast.

“We’re seeing international environmental outfits really take aim at people who are working here, whether it’s in the fishery or in aquaculture. Doing things like promoting large areas that would essentially just down some of the industries like fisheries and aquaculture.”