Fisheries and Oceans

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the proposed budget for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) for 2026-2027. Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson presented the budget, highlighting investments in small craft harbors and the importance of sustainable fisheries for economic growth. Committee members questioned the Minister and DFO officials on budget cuts, specifically regarding science and monitoring programs, and the impact on conservation efforts. The committee also discussed enforcement of fishing regulations and support for the fishing industry in various regions. Conservative committee members, including Clifford Small and Mel Arnold, raised concerns about budget cuts to science and monitoring programs, particularly those related to salmon and cod stocks. They questioned the Minister and DFO officials about the impact of these cuts on conservation efforts and the accuracy of scientific data. Small also brought up issues related to illegal fishing and enforcement in the lobster and scallop fisheries. Arnold questioned the minister on comparative analysis of new and previous monitoring systems to ensure reliability in monitoring. Liberal committee members, such as Robert Morrissey and Paul Connors, focused on the importance of small craft harbors and the Atlantic Fisheries Fund. They questioned the Minister and DFO officials about funding for these programs and the impact of climate change on coastal infrastructure. Connors also inquired about the use of artificial intelligence in fisheries management and the recreational food fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador. Bloc Québécois member Marilène Gill expressed concerns about budget cuts to the Maurice Lamontagne Institute and the sentinel fisheries program in Quebec. She questioned the Minister and DFO officials about the impact of these cuts on science, food security, and economic development in the region. New Democrat MP, Lisa Marie Barron, was absent. The committee voted to approve the main estimates for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, with the votes being agreed to on division, indicating some opposition. The committee also adopted the proposed budget for the meeting. The next meeting will focus on recreational and traditional fishing for softshell clams.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the Atlantic mackerel and Atlantic herring fisheries. Committee members heard from fishermen, a university professor, and representatives from fishermen's associations. The discussion focused on the current state of the fish stocks, the accuracy of scientific data, and the impact of fishing regulations on local communities. Lucas DesRoches, a commercial fisherman, argued that the mackerel stock is showing signs of recovery, but current scientific studies aren't reflecting this due to issues with the timing and methods used. He suggested better communication between fishermen and scientists, and a "bait first" approach to fishing regulations. Dominique Robert, a professor at Université du Québec à Rimouski, stated that despite fishing restrictions, mackerel and herring stocks remain in critical condition due to high mortality rates and unfavorable environmental conditions. He recommended keeping fishing activities low, continuing research on the proportion of Canadian mackerel caught in the U.S., and establishing a joint stock assessment with the U.S. Mark Arsenault, president of the Prince County Fishermen's Association, shared observations of increased mackerel and herring numbers. He highlighted the economic impact of high bait costs on fishermen and questioned why American fleets can harvest fish from the northern stock while Canadian fishermen cannot. Trevor Barlow, a fisherman and chair of the small pelagic board, expressed concerns about the spring herring stock, stating that the DFO's data collection methods are flawed. Ghislain Collin, president of a pelagic fishermen's group, advocated for a regulated reopening of the commercial fishery to collect essential scientific data and support affected coastal regions. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of the fisheries, including the accuracy of scientific data, the impact of fishing regulations, and the role of environmental groups. There was a general consensus that better communication and collaboration between fishermen and scientists are needed to ensure the sustainable management of these fisheries. The committee will continue its study and develop recommendations for the government.

The Fisheries and Oceans committee met to discuss the Atlantic mackerel and herring fisheries. The main focus was on the status of the Atlantic mackerel stock and the impact of the 2022 decision to close the commercial fishery. Committee members questioned representatives from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) about the science behind the closure, the collaboration with the United States on stock management, and the potential impact of budget cuts on scientific capacity. Key speakers included Clifford Small, who expressed frustration with the DFO's science and questioned the accuracy of the stock assessments. He also brought up the American quota increase and the lack of a bilateral stock management agreement. Bernard Vigneault, from DFO, defended the department's science and explained the differences between the northern and southern mackerel contingents. He also discussed the egg survey method used for stock assessment. Celine Gaudet addressed questions about potential job cuts at the Maurice Lamontagne Institute. Mel Arnold raised concerns about the slow progress on the committee's 2023 recommendations and the impact on harvesters. The committee voted on a motion to report to the House its disappointment that the Minister of Fisheries had not appeared before the committee for the study on Marine and Coastal Protections, which passed with a vote of 5-4. The committee also agreed to invite the Minister to appear for two hours to discuss main estimates. DFO representatives committed to providing written responses to several questions raised during the meeting, including details on budget cuts and the impact on scientific capacity.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss marine and coastal protections. The meeting focused on how the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), and Parks Canada are working to establish marine protected areas while considering the needs of the fishing industry and coastal communities. Key witnesses included Kathy Graham (DFO), Marie-Eve Neron (ECCC), and David Millar (Parks Canada Agency). They emphasized the importance of balancing conservation goals with the economic realities of fishing communities, and the need for better communication and collaboration with fishers. Committee members raised concerns about the potential economic impacts of marine protected areas on fishers, with some expressing skepticism about the government's approach and the consultation process. Some committee members felt that the government wasn't listening to the concerns of the fishing industry and that the process for establishing marine protected areas was not transparent enough. Witnesses acknowledged the need to improve communication and consultation with fishers, and to ensure that their knowledge and concerns are taken into account when establishing marine protected areas. They also highlighted the importance of monitoring the effectiveness of marine protected areas and adapting management practices as needed. There was discussion about specific marine protected area proposals, such as the northern shelf bioregion in British Columbia and the Virgin Rocks area in Newfoundland and Labrador. Committee members questioned whether the government was adequately considering the economic impacts of these proposals on fishers and coastal communities. Witnesses emphasized that the goal is not to close fishing areas entirely, but to find ways to balance conservation goals with sustainable fishing practices. The committee agreed to send another request for the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to appear before the committee to answer questions about the government's approach to marine protected areas. Finally, a notice of motion was tabled to undertake an urgent study on the decline of Atlantic salmon, with particular consideration given to the impact of striped bass and seal populations. The committee also discussed the importance of measuring the success of marine protected areas in achieving conservation objectives, and the need for more dynamic closures that take into account the seasonal presence of marine species.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss marine and coastal protections. The meeting featured testimonies from commercial fishers, association presidents, and scientists, each offering different perspectives on the implementation and impact of marine protected areas (MPAs). Key concerns raised included the lack of consultation with the fishing industry, the influence of foreign-funded environmental groups, and the potential economic damage to coastal communities. Witnesses also discussed the effectiveness of current methods for measuring protection objectives and whether the government's objectives have been achieved. Doug Mavin, a commercial harvester, expressed concerns about the shrinking footprint available for fishing due to MPAs and First Nations' protected areas. He highlighted the economic and human costs to the fishing industry, with young people leaving due to uncertainty. Colin Sproul, president of the Bay of Fundy Inshore Fishermen's Association, criticized the lack of consultation and the influence of environmental groups, advocating for a pause on MPA development. Glenn Kierce, general manager of Coast Tsimshian Fish Plant Ltd, emphasized the importance of sustainable fisheries for indigenous livelihoods and the potential negative impacts of MPAs on coastal communities. Philippe Archambault, scientific director of ArcticNet, argued that MPAs are like "savings accounts" for fish populations, enhancing reproductive potential and benefiting both commercial markets and local communities. He stressed the importance of regulatory compliance, ecological monitoring, and adaptive management in assessing the effectiveness of MPAs. Catherine Rigg and James Nickerson, directors and owners of Atlas Ocean Tours, shared their experiences with marine protection initiatives on Haida Gwaii, noting the importance of community support and effective monitoring. Committee members questioned witnesses on the economic impact of MPAs, the consultation process, and potential solutions for improving collaboration between the government and the fishing industry. A motion was passed to request the minister to appear before the committee to discuss the study. The committee acknowledged the differing perspectives and the need for further discussion to develop effective and sustainable marine protection strategies.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss marine and coastal protections. The committee heard from several witnesses, including Professor Anna Metaxas, Kendra MacDonald, and Dwan Street. Professor Metaxas spoke about the importance of marine conservation areas for protecting biodiversity and the need for broad consultations with stakeholders. MacDonald discussed the challenges of monitoring and enforcing marine protected areas and the potential of technology to improve data collection and decision-making. Street expressed concerns about the impact of marine protected areas on fishing communities and the need for fairness and transparency in the process. During the meeting, committee members questioned the witnesses on a range of topics, including the effectiveness of marine protected areas, the impact on fishing communities, and the role of environmental groups. Street raised concerns about a double standard in how different ocean users are treated, with fishing activity often prohibited while oil and gas exploration is allowed to proceed. She also questioned the motives of environmental groups and their influence on government policy. Committee members also discussed two motions. One motion, introduced by Mr. Morrissey, proposed a study on Canada's mackerel fishery and the potential impacts of increased U.S. fishing. This motion was amended to include a study on herring as well. A second motion, introduced by Mr. Connors, proposed a study on the small craft harbour program and ways to streamline its funding and implementation. A third motion, introduced by Mr. Deschênes, proposed a study on the management of recreational and traditional clam fishing in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Chaleur Bay.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss marine and coastal protections in Canada. The committee heard from representatives of the fishing industry, a hatchery, and academics. The discussion focused on the impact of marine protected areas (MPAs) on fisheries and coastal communities, and how to balance conservation goals with economic realities. Jim McIsaac from the BC Shrimp Trawlers' Association expressed concerns that Canada's MPA standards unfairly restrict small-scale fishermen and ignore the broader threats to ocean health. He argued that MPAs should be part of larger ocean planning processes and that closures should apply to all users equally. Michael Barron, representing Cape Breton fish harvesters, highlighted the uncertainty and frustration felt by fishermen due to unclear MPA rules and a lack of meaningful consultation. He emphasized that conservation efforts should be measured by ecological results and should involve the people who work on the water. Diana Barkley, from the Little Campbell Hatchery Society, spoke about the importance of hatcheries in rebuilding salmon stocks and the need to protect estuary and coastal habitats. She also highlighted the need for continued financial support for community hatcheries. Academics like Mark Carr and Fraser MacDonald discussed the need for effective monitoring programs to measure the results of MPAs and the importance of co-management approaches that involve the fishing industry in decision-making. Keith Sullivan from the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association recommended thorough socio-economic impact reviews before implementing MPAs, a revamped consultative process, and a strategy that allows responsible marine farming within protected areas. Committee members discussed the need for better consultation with fishing communities, the potential for integrated fisheries management plans to be as effective as closed areas, and the role of foreign funding in influencing marine protection policies. There was discussion of a recent decision in Newfoundland and Labrador to tear up a memorandum of understanding for a marine protected area due to a flawed process.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss clauses in the budget related to the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation (FFMC). The FFMC helps sell fish from inland fisheries, but it has been losing money. The government wants to sell the FFMC to a private company to help it become more modern and competitive. The Minister of Fisheries, Joanne Thompson, spoke about the importance of Canadian seafood and the government's efforts to open up new markets for fishers. She also talked about consulting with fishers and protecting the fisheries. However, she couldn't share many details about the FFMC sale because of confidentiality rules. Committee members questioned the minister and department officials about the sale, expressing concerns about transparency and the future of inland fishers. Some committee members felt the minister was unprepared and unwilling to provide important details. Officials explained that the FFMC has been losing market share, and some provinces have stopped participating. The goal of the sale is to find a buyer who can help the FFMC become more competitive and support inland fishers. The committee also discussed other issues, such as the mackerel fishery, Atlantic salmon, and marine protected areas. A motion was put forward to further study the mackerel fishery and consider the input of fishers. No decisions were made during the meeting. The committee is supposed to make recommendations on the budget clauses related to the FFMC sale, but some members feel they don't have enough information to do so. Officials promised to provide more information in writing about the clauses and the process.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss marine and coastal protections. The committee heard from experts and representatives from the fishing industry about the impact of marine protected areas (MPAs) on coastal communities and the sustainability of fisheries. Key topics included the effectiveness of MPAs, the importance of collaboration with the fishing industry, and the need for socio-economic impact assessments. Witnesses presented different perspectives on the value of MPAs, with some emphasizing their importance for biodiversity conservation and others highlighting the potential negative impacts on fishing livelihoods. Dr. Alex Caveen from the University of Hull shared insights from the UK's experience with marine conservation zones, emphasizing the importance of involving the fishing industry in the planning process and using robust ecological evidence to justify restrictions on fishing. Grant Dovey and Katelyn Lindsay from the BC Seafood Alliance expressed concerns about the loss of access to fishing grounds due to MPA implementation, particularly in the Northern Shelf bioregion. They stressed the need for updated socio-economic impact analyses and a collaborative approach to marine planning. Professor Ray Hilborn from the University of Washington argued that effective fisheries management is more important than MPAs for protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring sustainable fisheries. He suggested that resources should be directed towards better fisheries management practices rather than creating no-take areas. Professor Evan Edinger from Memorial University of Newfoundland spoke about the importance of protecting deep-sea corals and other vulnerable marine ecosystems, highlighting the need for scientific monitoring and enforcement of regulations. Ian MacPherson and Melanie Giffin from the P.E.I. Fishermen's Association emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration with fishers in establishing MPAs and marine refuges. They noted that successful initiatives involve fishers in the decision-making process and consider their knowledge of the waters. Stephen Woodley from the World Commission on Protected Areas discussed the science-based rationale for the 30% protection target and the potential for MPAs to contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries through spillover effects. The committee discussed the need for a balanced approach to marine conservation that considers both ecological and economic factors. Members raised questions about the effectiveness of MPAs, the impact of closures on coastal communities, and the role of science and ideology in guiding conservation efforts. The committee agreed to continue its study of marine and coastal protections, taking into account the diverse perspectives presented by the witnesses.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the enforcement of the Fisheries Act. Witnesses included retired and active fishery officers and advisors, who spoke about challenges they face in enforcing the law. Key issues raised were the difficulty in prosecuting First Nations individuals due to requirements for band council approval, the need for better traceability of fish to prevent illegal sales, and the limited peace officer status of fishery officers. Some officers felt they lacked support from the Department of Justice and faced political interference. Some committee members expressed concern that the Department of Justice was weighing whether a band's elected chief and council support charges being laid when deciding on whether to file those charges. Scott Coultish, a retired fishery officer, emphasized the importance of maintaining trust in the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and ensuring that fishery officers are seen as unbiased. Kent Spencer, a retired aboriginal affairs advisor, highlighted the ambiguity in regulations regarding First Nations fisheries and the challenges this creates for enforcement. Trevor Lushington, an active fishery officer, noted recent improvements in communication and equipment but also expressed concerns about potential political interference and the need for clearer direction from lawmakers. Geoff Thorburn, another active fishery officer, spoke about the lack of charge approvals for cases involving indigenous harvesters and the need for peace officer status to combat organized crime. Rae McCleave, a program officer and training coordinator, discussed the limited resources and personnel available to fishery officers. Peter Lambertucci, the national chief enforcement officer, defended the independence of fishery officers but acknowledged some of the challenges raised by other witnesses. Committee members questioned the witnesses about the role of politics in enforcement decisions and the impact of court decisions on the application of the Fisheries Act. There was discussion about whether the Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC) was unduly influenced by First Nations band councils in deciding whether to pursue charges. Several committee members requested additional information and documentation from the witnesses to help inform their review of the Fisheries Act. The committee agreed to request an email exchange that one of the witnesses spoke about in his testimony. The committee will continue its review of the Fisheries Act and plans to finalize a report with recommendations by the end of February.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the Department of Fisheries and Oceans' (DFO) spending plans for 2025-26. The Minister of Fisheries, Joanne Thompson, spoke about the importance of Canada's seafood industry and the government's focus on expanding markets while protecting jobs in coastal communities. She defended the decision to increase the northern cod quota, stating that the stock is healthy and the quota is sustainable. The minister also emphasized the importance of enforcing fishing seasons to protect fish populations. Committee members questioned the minister and DFO officials on a range of topics, including seal populations, Pacific salmon stock assessments, illegal fishing, and the Quebec fisheries fund. Clifford Small (Conservative) questioned the Minister about the impact of seal populations on fish stocks and the challenges of developing markets for seal products. He suggested that seal populations need to be reduced to balance the ecosystem. Mel Arnold (Conservative) raised concerns about cuts to Pacific salmon stock assessments and the impact on fisheries management. Alexis Deschênes (Bloc Québécois) questioned the Minister and DFO officials about illegal fishing and whether fisheries officers are being instructed not to respond in cases involving Indigenous fishers. DFO officials, including Kaili Levesque (Interim Deputy Minister) and Peter Lambertucci (National Chief Enforcement Officer), addressed questions about the department's budget, enforcement activities, and the use of artificial intelligence in fisheries management. They emphasized the importance of science-based decision-making and working with Indigenous communities. They stated that there was no directive preventing fishery officers from enforcing the law. Committee members expressed concerns about the impact of budget cuts on research and monitoring activities, the sustainability of fish stocks, and the need to support coastal communities. The committee approved the supplementary estimates (B) for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, with some members voting against. The committee will meet again to continue its review of the Fisheries Act and discuss drafting instructions.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss issues related to enforcing the Fisheries Act and managing fisheries in Canada. The discussion focused on illegal fishing, fair treatment of fishers, and conservation efforts. Witnesses included Jean-Sébastien Vacher, a commercial fisher and former fishery officer, Nigel Buote, a commercial fisherman, and Réjean Noël and Marcel Hébert from the Association des crabiers acadiens. Jean-Sébastien Vacher spoke about barriers to enforcing the Fisheries Act, including the increasing number of rules and regulations, and a perceived difference in how the act is applied to Indigenous versus non-Indigenous fishers. He claimed that officers were told not to challenge Indigenous fishers, leading to unchecked poaching. Nigel Buote raised concerns about unauthorized fishing impacting conservation efforts and fair management of the lobster fishery. He asked for equal rules and enforcement for all fishers, regardless of background, and highlighted the need for monitoring and transparency. Réjean Noël and Marcel Hébert discussed the snow crab fishery, emphasizing the importance of dockside monitoring to prevent illegal landings. They expressed concerns that illegal landings are underestimated and negatively affect the snow crab population. Committee members questioned the witnesses about their experiences with illegal fishing, enforcement practices, and the impact on the sustainability of fisheries. They explored potential solutions, such as increasing the number of fishery officers, using cameras for monitoring, and implementing stricter fines for illegal activities. Committee members debated whether there was equitable enforcement of fisheries laws, with some suggesting that ethnicity may be a factor. Some committee members expressed concern that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans wasn't doing enough to combat illegal fishing. The committee will use the testimony to inform their recommendations for a report on the Fisheries Act.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the Fisheries Act, focusing on how it's enforced. Witnesses included Shannon O'Connor and Emma Beauchamp from the Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC), and Hannah Rogers from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). They explained their roles in prosecuting offenses and ensuring compliance with the Act. Committee members questioned the witnesses about the fairness and consistency of enforcement, especially concerning Indigenous communities. They also explored potential challenges and improvements to the Act's enforcement. Shannon O'Connor explained that the PPSC decides whether to prosecute based on whether there's a good chance of conviction and if it's in the public's interest. She noted that they consider factors like the impact on communities and the environment. Hannah Rogers discussed ECCC's role in enforcing the Act's pollution prevention rules. She mentioned that they use a risk-based approach to focus on the most harmful activities and are exploring new technologies and penalties to improve enforcement. Committee members raised concerns about whether the PPSC's approach gives unfair advantages to Indigenous people. They questioned whether the PPSC considers Indigenous identity when deciding to prosecute, and if this could lead to different treatment compared to non-Indigenous individuals. O'Connor stated that they consider the individual circumstances of each case, including factors like systemic discrimination, but that there is no bias in their decisions. Some committee members expressed skepticism, suggesting that the current system may not be fair to everyone. Several committee members requested data on investigations and prosecutions, including the number of cases involving Indigenous people. O'Connor agreed to look into providing some of this information, but noted that some data is confidential. The committee also discussed potential changes to the Fisheries Act, such as the use of administrative monetary penalties, to improve enforcement. No specific decisions were made during the meeting, but the discussion will inform the committee's upcoming report on the Act.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss a report from the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development about Canada's progress in establishing marine protected areas. The goal is to protect 25% of Canada's marine and coastal ecosystems by 2025 and 30% by 2030. The committee heard from Jerry V. DeMarco, the Commissioner, as well as officials from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Parks Canada. The report found that Canada is not on track to meet the 2025 target and lacks a clear plan for the 2030 goal.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the Fisheries Act. The committee heard from Leigh Fox of the RAD Network, who suggested changes to fish habitat management, including aiming for a "net gain" of habitat, using habitat banking, and allowing fees to be paid in place of habitat offsets. Peter German from the Vancouver Anti-Corruption Institute spoke about the risks of organized crime and money laundering in the fishing industry, suggesting stronger enforcement and transparency. Committee members questioned the witnesses on enforcement, habitat restoration, and the role of Indigenous communities. During the second part of the meeting, the committee heard from representatives of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). Adam Burns, Assistant Deputy Minister, spoke about the department's work to protect fish habitats and support the fishing sector. Peter Lambertucci, National Chief Enforcement Officer, discussed enforcement efforts and collaboration with other agencies. Committee members questioned the DFO representatives about enforcement, habitat protection, and the department's relationship with Indigenous groups. Members of the committee raised concerns about illegal fishing, the impact of seal populations on fish stocks, and the enforcement of regulations. Mr. Lambertucci stated that DFO operates with law enforcement independence, free of political interference. He also said that DFO would welcome testimony from fishery officers. The committee requested documents from DFO related to enforcement activities and guidelines. The committee discussed the possibility of allowing habitat restoration to occur away from the site of damage, as long as there was an overall net gain. DFO representatives said that this was more of a management question than a science question. The committee also discussed the role of Indigenous knowledge in fisheries management. The committee is preparing a report with recommendations for updating the Fisheries Act. The next meeting will be a briefing on establishing Marine Protected Areas.

The Fisheries and Oceans Committee met to discuss the Fisheries Act. Witnesses shared their perspectives on how the act is working and what changes might be needed. The committee heard from representatives of prawn producers, fish harvesters, fishermen's unions, and conservation alliances. They talked about issues like quota allocations, owner-operator policies, and the role of science in fisheries management. Bruce Chapman from the Canadian Association of Prawn Producers emphasized the need for stability in the fisheries sector, especially with economic uncertainties and fluctuating environmental conditions. He cautioned against changes to the Fisheries Act that could limit the ability to adapt to challenges. Melanie Sonnenberg from the Canadian Independent Fish Harvesters Federation called for strengthening the owner-operator policy and incorporating harvester knowledge into fisheries science. Martin Mallet from the Maritime Fishermen's Union highlighted the importance of stricter enforcement of regulations and enhanced consultation with fishermen. Colin Sproul from the Unified Fisheries Conservation Alliance expressed concerns about proposed changes to the act and the influence of environmental groups in fisheries management. He stressed the need for clear rules, compliance, and enforcement. Stewart Elgie, a professor at the University of Ottawa, spoke about strengthening habitat protection and growing fish populations by moving to a policy of net gain under the Fisheries Act. Denis St-Pierre, an accountant, pointed out drafting errors in the Atlantic fishery regulations. Regional Chief Terry Teegee from the Assembly of First Nations advocated for amendments to align the Fisheries Act with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Jim McIsaac from the BC Shrimp Trawlers’ Association called for enshrining social objectives in the Fisheries Act. During the meeting, committee members discussed issues such as fines for offenses, illegal fishing, and the enforcement of regulations. They also considered a motion to extend the study on law enforcement barriers and invite additional witnesses. The committee agreed to hold at least three additional meetings to further examine these issues. The committee agreed to hold additional meetings to further examine issues related to the Fisheries Act.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the Fisheries Act. Witnesses shared their experiences and suggestions for improvements. The committee heard about issues such as corporate control in the fishing industry, the importance of including fish harvester knowledge in science and management decisions, and challenges with enforcing the Act. Some witnesses suggested changes to the Act, while others emphasized the need for better enforcement of the existing rules. Jimmy Lee Foss, a fisherman, spoke about his experience with corporate control and how it negatively impacted his business and family. He felt that the proposed law was not properly enforced, leading to his exploitation. Randy Nelson, a former fishery officer, suggested designating fishery officers as full-time peace officers and improving their working conditions. He also highlighted the need for better enforcement and addressing political interference. Jeramy Boudreau, president of the Maritime Gaspereau Industry Association, discussed the importance of fish passage and the lack of enforcement regarding obstructions like dams. He also emphasized the need for better science and more conservation officers. Daniel Fleck, executive director of the Brazil Rock 33/34 Lobster Association, recommended strengthening owner-operator policies and incorporating harvester knowledge into science. Keith Hutchings, managing director of the Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation, focused on innovation and technology adoption to maximize the value of the seafood industry. Committee members raised concerns about the lack of enforcement, political interference, and the impact on coastal communities. A motion was put forward to invite additional witnesses, including fishery officers and representatives from various organizations, to further investigate law enforcement barriers. The committee agreed to invite the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development to discuss marine protected areas.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Fisheries and Oceans met to discuss the Fisheries Act and issues related to lobster and redfish fisheries. The first panel of witnesses included representatives from fish harvester associations who expressed concerns about the owner-operator and fleet separation policies, arguing that corporate entities are gaining too much control over licenses, hurting independent fishermen and coastal communities. They asked for stronger legal protections for independent fishermen and more transparency in decision-making. Michael Barron, president of the Cape Breton Fish Harvesters Association, emphasized the importance of including local knowledge in fisheries management. Bernie Berry, senior fisheries advisor for the Coldwater Lobster Association, spoke about the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to prevent fraudulent license transfers to corporations. Claire Canet, project manager with the Regroupement des pêcheurs professionnels du sud de la Gaspésie, suggested amendments to the Fisheries Act to ensure fair and sustainable management of fishery resources for all Canadians. Committee members questioned the witnesses about license values, funding challenges, and foreign ownership in the fishing industry. The second panel featured representatives from Agence Mamu Innu Kakussesht, an organization representing Innu commercial fishing communities. They discussed the importance of exploratory lobster licenses for their communities and highlighted their collaborative work with non-indigenous fishers and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) on the Côte-Nord. Guy Vigneault, director of Shipek Fisheries, emphasized the positive economic impact of the licenses and the harmonious working relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous communities in their region. Daniel Malec, director of economic development, expressed disappointment that Innu representatives were not initially consulted during the committee's review and stressed the importance of reconciliation and economic catch-up for indigenous communities. Committee members questioned the witnesses about the principle of adjacency, the unit 1 redfish quota decision, and the process of issuing licenses. During the meeting, there was also discussion about inviting former fisheries ministers to testify before the committee regarding past decisions. Some committee members expressed concerns about disclosing discussions that took place in camera, leading to a point of order. The committee agreed to consult with the clerk regarding the matter. The meeting concluded with a motion to move in camera to discuss other matters.