This very thoughtful piece deserves much discussion on so many points.
While I see the evolution of the social economy differently from Ed's, we both agree on the inevitable social and economic reckoning. The current demographic structure and political voice of smaller communities are key factors in this. We can't keep 'kicking the can down the road,' much like we do with our provincial debt.
Significant changes are coming to the processing sector of the fisheries sector, although that sector has been downsizing since the late 1980s. There is likely over-capacity in the harvesting sector and social and political opposition to change. Change has economic, social, and psychological costs, and our natural tendency is to maximize our current well-being and push any adjustment later, preferably onto someone else.
Meanwhile, we should remember the aquaculture industry and the remarkable success of Cooke's.
As for rural communities reinventing themselves, it is unlikely since older folks like me don't have the energy or appetite for it. These communities are being reinvented from the outside by people, often from urban areas, as their go-to place in the summer.
There is the issue of political leadership. Given the experience of good people such as Clyde Wells, who cared and tried, is leadership possible in the shire?
This very thoughtful piece deserves much discussion on so many points.
While I see the evolution of the social economy differently from Ed's, we both agree on the inevitable social and economic reckoning. The current demographic structure and political voice of smaller communities are key factors in this. We can't keep 'kicking the can down the road,' much like we do with our provincial debt.
Significant changes are coming to the processing sector of the fisheries sector, although that sector has been downsizing since the late 1980s. There is likely over-capacity in the harvesting sector and social and political opposition to change. Change has economic, social, and psychological costs, and our natural tendency is to maximize our current well-being and push any adjustment later, preferably onto someone else.
Meanwhile, we should remember the aquaculture industry and the remarkable success of Cooke's.
As for rural communities reinventing themselves, it is unlikely since older folks like me don't have the energy or appetite for it. These communities are being reinvented from the outside by people, often from urban areas, as their go-to place in the summer.
There is the issue of political leadership. Given the experience of good people such as Clyde Wells, who cared and tried, is leadership possible in the shire?
Good commentary
Nailed it.