April 9, 1998
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister still concerned with salmon situation

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister, Kevin Aylward, is still calling for a meeting with David Anderson to discuss the disparity within the Atlantic region salmon management plans. While the plan for New Brunswick has not yet been released, the eight salmon tags have already been sent to vendors and are in the hands of some anglers.

Minister Aylward said: "Mr. Anderson has stated that his primary concern is conservation. We share that concern, however the scientific effort for salmon management is sporadic at best." On the Miramichi which experienced the greatest decline in Atlantic Canada, anglers are permitted to retain eight salmon. Whereas areas in Newfoundland that showed substantial increases, anglers are only allowed to retain one and possibly an additional three depending on an in-season review.

Even though this year's management plan is dependent on an in-season review, DFO has no capability of conducting the reviews for much of the province, areas such as South Coast Bay, Bay St. George and most of Labrador.

Minister Aylward concluded his comments by saying, "I will be meeting with Mr. Anderson to discuss a return of parity for Atlantic Salmon management and to end the cosmetic conservation efforts being made by DFO."

Contact: David Wells, Communication, (709) 729-6183.

198 04 09 5:05 p.m.