Shea she has met with her provincial counterparts from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island and a number of industry representatives from the Maritimes to discuss the serious challenges faced by the lobster fishery, as well as opportunities to ensure the continued viability of this valuable contributor to the Canadian economy.
Shea opined that current markets for lobster are challenging and every lobster fishing group and association has expressed this concern. The meeting has identified several options for improving the situation, including finding ways to manage supply. Shea fully support efforts by industry and my provincial counterparts to improve market access for lobster. In the meeting it is recognized that the need for immediate action to secure Canadian lobster in the global marketplace.
There is no doubt that the Canadian Government is providing support to industry sectors that are feeling the impacts of the global economic crisis. According to Shea its Economic Action Plan will help resource-dependent communities through initiatives such as the two-year, $1-billion Community Adjustment Fund, which can help by supporting economic diversification in communities affected by the declining global demand for seafood.
