According to a news release a new group has been formed to examine the financial state of the province’s fishing industry and to develop a marketing strategy and restructuring measures. Fisheries Minister Tom Hedderson told that the new agreement between government, Fish Food and Allied Workers’ (FFAW) union and Association of Seafood Producers (ASP) is aimed at addressing the long-term development of the fishing industry in the province.
It is mentioned that the parties have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that provides a plan for addressing the long-term structural issues in the fishing industry. The process helped resolve the shrimp pricing dispute over the weekend. It is said that the working groups will be established to address key areas. It is estimated the total cost to the provincial government of implementing the MOU will be up to $800,000.
Hedderson opined that this mutual agreement builds significantly on the work that we started with the Fishing Industry Renewal Strategy. He added that a great deal of work has already been done and a lot of investment has been made. A number of good policy initiatives have been put in place.
It is explained that the process will be directed and overseen by a steering committee consisting of two representatives from each of the FFAW, ASP and the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture. Hedderson said he has written federal Fisheries Minister Gail Shea and asked that the federal government forego fisheries licencing fees for the 2009 fishing season. FFAW president Earle McCurdy said there are two important aspects to the “complex” agreements. ASP president Derek Butler said the agreement underscores the provincial government’s commitment to restructuring the industry.
