Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment Kevin J. MacAdam indicated today that he was very pleased that an allocation of northern shrimp had been awarded to PEI-based interests. "This is a significant step forward for our fishing industry and for the economy of the Province," said the Minister.
The Federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Herb Dhaliwal had earlier announced a new multi-year management plan for the northern shrimp fishery, which includes an allocation of 1,500 metric tonnes of the valuable shellfish resource to a consortium of PEI fishing industry interests representing the fishing and processing sectors. "I am very pleased that this Province will now benefit from this lucrative fishery, and that the benefits will be well distributed throughout the fishing industry" observed Mr. MacAdam.
While the northern shrimp stock is located off the east coast of Newfoundland and grounds to the north, it has been harvested up until now by interests from all other Eastern Provinces and Territories except PEI.
"Successive Island governments have worked toward this day for over 15 years and I have intensified these efforts over the last 3 ½ years to see that this injustice was finally corrected" stated Minister MacAdam. "Herb Dhaliwal is the first DFO Minister with the fortitude to address our long-standing claim for access to this fishery, and I commend and thank him for his decision. Furthermore, his decision reflects a return to more fairness in allocating access to important regional resources, which I feel is a very positive aspect" the Minister continued.
Although the details are yet to be worked out, the allocation will most likely be harvested on behalf of the Island consortium by an existing shrimp fishing vessel, at least in the immediate term.
The allocation awarded to the PEI consortium is temporary in nature, and will be reconsidered if shrimp stocks decline. "Our long-stated objective of full and permanent access to this fishery is not fully met by this announcement, however, I am ready and prepared to work with the Federal government, my colleagues in other Provinces, and with the northern shrimp industry on the future development and management of this fishery for the benefit of all." said the Minister.