As the largest community on the peninsula, the town of Harbour Breton acts as a service hub for the region, and remains optimistic about opportunities for growth in the economy. The community has a modern health facility, recreation facilities, water facilities and a large number of established businesses to meet the needs of local residents. Harbour Breton has a full time economic development officer on staff to support new opportunities for the community.
The traditional fishery has long been, and is still considered, the mainstay of the town’s economy, and the traditional fishery is on the rebound. However, aquaculture opportunities are now leading economic development in the region. The Coast of Bays Regional Development Corporation, of which Harbour Breton is a member, has been working cooperatively over the past number of years to bring new resources and opportunities from this sector to individual communities in the region. This cooperation has been a positive venture benefiting all communities with infrastructure improvements and sustained employment.
A number of difficult issues remain for Harbour Breton, however. The population of the community is aging rapidly and housing for seniors is a growing issue. Low school registration reflects the dropping birth rate, and youth are migrating to work or leaving for educational opportunities. Few youth are attracted to the fishery. Employment at the Harbour Breton fish plant has been up and down since 2004. Current operations have been shut down for more than a year, and the immediate employment needs of more than 100 displaced plant workers is concerning for the town.
