News Release Archive
PREMIER--PREMIER MEETS FEDERAL FISHERIES MINISTER
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Premier John Savage and Fisheries Minister Jim Barkhouse met
with federal Fisheries Minister, Fred Mifflin Wednesday
night to explain the crisis facing Nova Scotia fishing
communities.
"We're being devastated by the changes taking place,"
Premier Savage told the federal minister.
"Nova Scotians are decent people in a state of revolt. In
the past we have demonstrated we can adapt to change and
survive by our own resourcefulness. We continue to be
Canada's most successful fishing province but new fees and
licensing policies are placing a heavy burden on our
industry."
Mr. Barkhouse told the federal minister that the cumulative
impact of licence fees and user fees have not been properly
studied by Ottawa.
"We need to slow the process down and consider the long-term
effects of new fisheries policies at enterprise, household
and community levels.
"Industry, community leaders and elected officials are
united in a way they have never been before. Ottawa must
hear our message. Licensing policy, fees combined with
impact of new fees and charges are the main issues that have
to be addressed," Mr. Barkhouse said.
The federal minister told the premier that he understands
the concerns of fishing communities across Atlantic Canada.
"However, the licensing fees were finalized after extensive
consultations with the fishing industry in the Atlantic
Provinces. As a result, some of the license fees have been
adjusted. The Canadian Council of Professional Fish
Harvesters have been asked to report in one year about the
effects of licence fees on industry across Canada. The
licence fees were established to reflect the value of the
privilege of access to the fishery and the ability of the
industry to pay," Mr. Mifflin said.
Premier Savage and Mr. Barkhouse said Nova Scotians are
still asking for further negotiation of fees and licensing
policy.
During the meeting with Mr. Mifflin, Premier Savage also
raised Nova Scotia's concerns over proposed port fees. The
premier said the Port of Halifax must remain competitive
with U.S. ports or go our of business.
Coast Guard officials are meeting in Halifax this week with
shipping company officials, port officials and local
politicians.
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Contact: David Harrigan 902-424-6600
jlw Feb. 08, 1996 5:35 p.m.