As per the press communiqué of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, a total of $3 million has been provided to the Regroupement des pêcheurs professionnels du sud de la Gaspésie (RPPSG) and the Association des pêcheurs propriétaires des Îles-de-la-Madeleine (APPIM) through the Atlantic Lobster Sustainability Measures program to help the groups implement new measures in the Quebec lobster fishery. This will build on their previous efforts towards sustainability.
Minister Shea said that the two groups are among the first ones to receive funding to implement sustainability projects in their Lobster Fishing Areas. She added that prviding fund to these companies is an important step forward for conservation and improved economic viability of Canada’s lobster fishery over the long term.
This funding will allow the APPIM to put in place an electronic logbook pilot project with a view to future full implementation. The RPPSG’s project include the retirement of 11 licences and the introduction of an electronic logbook system improve monitoring of fishing activities and control of bycatches.
Minister Shea said that this program is a key part of our Government’s recent efforts to help the lobster industry adapt to new global market requirements through restructuring and the adoption of stronger conservation measures.
