Canadians want feds to keep the fisheries healthy: survey
by CM Staff
Fishery organizations call for a crackdown on those that break the rules
PHOTO: Theragra chalcogramma Trawling operations on the NOAA Ship miller Freeman/Allen Shimada, NOAA NMFS OST
OTTAWA — A new survey shows that a majority of Canadians want fisheries where everyone respects fishing regulations and the rules are enforced by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
Commissioned by a coalition of fisherman’s organizations and conducted by Nanos Research, Canadians believe that direct negotiations between the government, Indigenous leaders and fishing organizations are important in managing the fisheries.
“Some individuals are openly breaking the rules meant to keep our fisheries healthy and sustainable,” said Maritime Fishermen’s Union President Gaetan Robichaud, in a prepared statement.
The research suggests that about nine in ten Canadians (89%) said it is important to ensure everyone respects the fishing regulations based on the principles of sustainability and more than eight in 10 (87%) have said it’s important to enforce the rules set by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
The same national survey also suggests solutions. Eight in 10 Canadians (79%) believe it is important to have the Government, Indigenous Leaders and fishing organizations negotiate directly together to manage the fisheries.
“Our coalition of fishing organizations in Atlantic Canada and Quebec are ready to be at the table to talk directly with the Government and Indigenous Leaders today to create a positive future for the fisheries for everyone,” said Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association President Bobby Jenkins.
