It is told that the project was a success as all fish was grade A quality and top price was received for the product. According to the Provincial Government it had provided approximately $10,000 to support the development of a baited cod pot fishery on Fogo Island. The funding was allocated under the Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program, which is part of the Fishing Industry Renewal Strategy.
The Honourable Trevor Taylor, acting Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, informed that this project was an excellent opportunity to pursue options for producing a higher quality cod product. He also said that it was also an opportunity to achieve higher prices for harvesters while at the same time pursuing a more environmentally friendly form of fishing.
In this project the cod was caught using baited pots, which are considered to be a sustainable method of harvesting. It also enabled harvesters to achieve a higher price for their product because cod pods help to maintain the quality of the fish. Dr. Paul Winger, director of the Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Resources at the Marine Institute, express that this project was a collaborative initiative between the provincial government, the Shorefast Foundation, Marine Institute, Fogo Island Co-Op and the Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation.
It is told that the project will act as a model for the other communities in which harvesters, processors and restaurants can work together to provide top quality fish to consumers.
