Encouraging more Islanders to purchase fresh local lobster is behind the province’s annual Love our Lobster campaign, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Ron MacKinley.

“We are declaring May and June as Love our Lobster months to promote the high quality of Prince Edward Island lobsters and support fishers, processors, retailers, peddlers, and other sectors of the industry,” said Minister MacKinley.

During May and June, Island radio stations Ocean 100 and Hot 105.5 and 21 participating retailers are promoting contests with prizes of free lobster. The grand prize includes a lobster dinner for 20 people catered by the Culinary Institute of Canada. Numerous other prizes will be available. Participating retailers will also draw for 10 pounds of lobster to be given away the last week in June.

“It is great to work together for the benefit of all Prince Edward Islanders,” said the Minister.

More than 1,200 fishers are involved in the lobster fishery. Last year, more than 27 million pounds of lobster were landed with an approximate value of $250 million to the Island economy, including spin-offs. Most of the product is exported to domestic and international markets.

“We are encouraging people to eat more fresh lobster and enjoy this premium Prince Edward Island product. We want Islanders to make lobster an important part of celebrations with family and friends,” said Minister MacKinley.

For contest details visit www.gov.pe.ca/fard/loveourlobster