The shrimp fishing industry in Quebec finds itself in dire straits as northern shrimp stocks plummet in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, posing a significant threat to the livelihood of fishermen.

Historic Decline Threatens Fisheries

The Gulf of St. Lawrence is witnessing a historic decline in northern shrimp stocks, rendering fishing quotas too low to support a viable fishing season. This downturn not only jeopardizes the income of fishermen but also poses a serious economic threat to regions dependent on the shrimp industry. In Gaspé alone, the crisis puts up to 1,000 jobs at risk.

A combination of factors contributes to the decline of shrimp stocks, including a lack of oxygen in the water and an overabundance of redfish. These environmental conditions are significantly impacting the shrimp population in the St. Lawrence region.

Exploring Solutions

Daniel Côté, Mayor of Gaspé, emphasizes the urgency of exploring various solutions to address the crisis and safeguard the fishing industry’s future.

Mayor Côté suggests considering the possibility of transferring shrimp fishing licenses to alternative fisheries, such as lobster fishing, to mitigate the economic impact on fishermen. This strategic shift could provide alternative sources of income while preserving the local fishing industry.

License Buyback Programs

To alleviate pressure on the industry, Mayor Côté proposes implementing license buyback programs targeted at fishermen nearing retirement age. By incentivizing fishermen to exit the industry, the remaining fishing licenses could be consolidated, potentially improving economic viability for those remaining in the sector.

Mayor Côté advocates for increased financial support from the federal government to assist affected fishermen and communities during this challenging time. Enhanced financial assistance could help bridge the gap until sustainable solutions are implemented to revive the shrimp fishing sector.