April 17, 1998 * Fisheries and Environment [to Jul 1998]Premier Pat Binns and Fisheries and Environment Minister Kevin J. MacAdam announced today that they have been successful in scheduling another consultation with Federal Fisheries Minister David Anderson, in advance of any announcement of lobster conservation measures affecting the Island industry. A large delegation will meet with Minister Anderson in Ottawa on Monday morning. "I am pleased to say that the Province of Prince Edward Island will be putting forward a truly united front to the Federal Government on this vital issue," the Minister stated. In addition to the Premier and the Minister, the delegation will include Liberal fisheries critic Hector MacLeod, PEIFA President Donald Strongman, one representative from each of the three lobster fishing areas in PEI, and one representative of processors. Decisions regarding measures to increase egg production in the southern Gulf are expected by next week. Leaked reports earlier this week indicated a significant program of carapace size increases was being planned. "It is essential that we have this opportunity to demonstrate just how serious we see this issue," said Mr. MacAdam. "The Island industry and Government are united around the firm view that more knowledge of the effects of these measures is essential before we could agree to radical changes of the type being reported," he continued." We will reiterate our call for a moratorium on new measures and a joint study package to secure the necessary information over the next three years." Media Contact: Lewie Creed