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In a show of unity and frustration, Canadian shrimpers and coastal fishermen from Quebec, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador congregated in Grande-Rivière on Tuesday, delivering a resounding message to the federal government: their fisheries management is sorely lacking.
Calls for Aid and Review of Quotas
Central to the demonstrators’ demands is the implementation of an aid plan featuring a license buyback policy. Additionally, they are urging Ottawa to reassess the redfish quotas announced recently, which they argue could have severe repercussions for their livelihoods.
Despite the absence of Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Diane Lebouthillier, the discontent among the demonstrators towards her was palpable. Critics accuse her of presiding over the demise of the fishing industry in Gaspésie, fearing that it could lead to the closure of villages, reminiscent of the fate of Murdochville.
Concerns Over Redfish Quotas
While the resumption of commercial redfish fishing has been confirmed, the provisional quota of 25,000 tonnes, predominantly allocated to offshore fishermen, has sparked anxiety among demonstrators. They fear that granting a significant portion of redfish quotas to larger vessels could result in a detrimental impact on bycatch, notably halibut and turbot.
Furthermore, the announcement of a meager shrimp quota of only 3,060 tonnes by Minister Lebouthillier has left many fishermen bewildered and concerned about the future of their industry.
The Ripple Effect on Communities
The ramifications of these decisions extend far beyond the fishing sector, with the potential closure of 80 fishing businesses in the Rivière-au-Renard sector alone. Entire ecosystems reliant on fishing activities, including tackle manufacturing and boat repair, maintenance, and construction, are at risk.