The press communiqué of Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, states that the government of Canada has listen to the prayers of its citizen of Newfoundland and Labrador and extend the stewardship and recreational groundfish fisheries. The news give relief to the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador who pray for good things during this difficult time.
Minister Shea said that the Government stands with the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. In the wake of Hurricane Igor, it may not be possible to get out and fish this coming weekend. She also said that due to the bad effects of the hurricane and lost fishing time as a result of severe weather conditions, she is announcing that the cod stewardship fishery, which was due to close today, will be extended for a period of one week. As well, the recreational fishery will reopen for an extra weekend.
Experts believe that these extensions will allow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who have been adversely affected by Hurricane Igor and its aftermath an opportunity to participate in these fisheries. Minister Shea said that conservation and sustainability of this important stock remain our number one priority and as such we remind all fishers, both commercial and recreational, that the catch limits set in place must be respected.
