Minister Meets with Federal Minister

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Ron Chisholm met with federal Fisheries Minister Gail Shea Monday, Dec. 1, in Ottawa, to discuss the challenges facing the fishing industry in Nova Scotia, especially the lobster fishery.

The meeting was held to discuss federal fisheries management plans and policies and to look at ways to work together to achieve sustainable management and economic success.

The two ministers talked about the current situation with the lobster industry. Recent downturns in the global economy have contributed to fewer sales of lobster and lower prices for the fishermen.

"Ms. Shea is aware of the serious issues facing the lobster industry in southwest Nova Scotia and she has agreed to have her staff work with provincial officials to explore options that I have put forward," said Mr. Chisholm.

"There are also a number of key issues surrounding the new policy of licence stacking that must be made clear," said Mr. Chisholm. "I have suggested the changes in this policy be clearly written to reflect that the owner-operator must continue to be respected, that independent fishermen can combine no more than two licences, and if economic circumstances improve, that fishermen can go back to a single licence."

The recent change to the lobster licencing policy relating to stacking has caused concern with Nova Scotia fishermen. Fishermen believe it will lead to the accumulation of many licences by one individual or corporation.

"Ms. Shea and I had a good discussion on the stacking issue and she will provide more information to us on this policy," said Mr. Chisholm.

The fishery is a major contributor to our economy. The lobster sector, contributing close to $400 million dollars annually, plays a significant role in the economic and social prosperity of our rural, coastal communities.