A cod fish is spotted aboard a fishing boat near Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, in an archived image.
Thirty-two years after Newfoundland and Labrador's cod fishery came to a halt, local fishermen are demanding its revival. Greg Pretty, leader of a union representing 14,000 inshore fishers, argues that the northern cod stocks haven't rebounded enough for large offshore boats to resume fishing.
Pretty passionately voiced his concerns during a press conference in St. John's, labeling the decision to allow offshore fishing as disastrous. He vowed protests until their demands are met.
The federal Fisheries Department recently announced the end of the moratorium, heralding it as a historic moment for Newfoundlanders. They proposed a total catch of 18,000 tonnes for 2024, with a significant portion allocated to inshore fishers.
However, Pretty highlighted that about 1,000 tonnes would still go to Canadian and foreign offshore fleets. He criticized these larger vessels as harmful to the environment and unsustainable for coastal communities.
The moratorium began in 1992 after northern cod stocks, once the lifeblood of the region's fishing industry, collapsed due to overfishing and environmental changes. It devastated the local economy and upended traditional ways of life.
Since 2006, a limited "stewardship" fishery allowed small-scale cod fishing, closely monitored by scientists for stock assessments. Pretty urged Ottawa to prioritize reinstating this fishery over reopening commercial operations involving offshore vessels.
After the press conference, the union shared a 2015 promise from the federal Liberals to reserve the initial 115,000 tonnes of commercial cod fishing for inshore fishers. Pretty urged the government to honor this commitment.
In response to questions about offshore involvement in this year's fishery, the Fisheries Department emphasized cautious and optimistic rebuilding efforts. They stressed ongoing discussions with stakeholders to ensure sustainable and prosperous fisheries development.
Glen Newbury, speaking on behalf of the FFAW's executive committee, reflected on the enduring efforts to rebuild cod stocks and revive the fishery that defined Newfoundland. He expressed concerns that reopening to offshore fleets could lead to swift depletion of stocks, setting them back years.
The federal New Democrats echoed support for the union's stance, criticizing the Liberals for allowing offshore draggers back into the waters. They advocated for a return to the stewardship fishery as the most viable path forward.
In conclusion, Newfoundland's fishing industry stands at a critical juncture as stakeholders debate the future of the cod fishery. The community awaits Ottawa's decision, balancing economic opportunity with environmental sustainability.
