Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Walter Bradley said today he welcomes the introduction of a new federal Fisheries Act.
The new Act was tabled in the House of Commons last week by federal fisheries minister Fred Mifflin. As the first major rewrite of the Act in this century, it will modernize and update the legal basis for fisheries, conservation and habitat management in Canada. Among its major changes, the new Act would provide a direct voice in fisheries management through partnership agreements.
"The new Act introduces major changes for the fishing industry in this province," said Mr. Bradley. "It goes a long way in making much-needed reforms in the way the fishery is managed and regulated, and will help ensure a more equitable treatment for fishermen and processors."
Mr. Bradley said he had an opportunity at a recent meeting to discuss the measures with Mr. Mifflin and outline the province's position.
"I raised with Mr. Mifflin the concern that many fishermen and processors have expressed," he said. "They can understand the need to reduce costs, but they are very dissatisfied with the timeliness of fisheries management decisions. Management plans must be in place and communicated to the industry well in advance of the season opening. Fishermen and processors must be able to plan their business like anyone else." He also told the federal minister the means for reporting on landings must be streamlined to reduce administrative burdens.
"I am hopeful that the streamlining of regulations and the new partnership agreements will result in an improved quality of services and more timely decision-making," said Mr. Bradley.
He said through consultations with industry groups, there is support for the establishment of new independent tribunals to decide license appeals and to replace the courts in dealing with violations. He said there are, however, some reservations about the impact on parts of the industry under the proposed partnership agreements.
"The concept has merit but I am concerned that any partnership arrangements respond to the priorities of industry sectors and provincial economies," he said.
The new Act also provides for the delegation to the provinces of some freshwater habitat responsibilities.
After the Act receives second reading in the Commons, it will be referred to the Standing Committee on Fisheries. Mr. Bradley said he impressed on the federal minister the importance of providing industry groups with the opportunity to present their views to the Committee.
"This new Act introduces significant changes, and it's extremely important that its adoption be preceded with broad consultations to ensure it meets the needs of the industry, now and in the future," he said.