June 30, 1998
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister urges DFO to conduct in-season review early

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister, Kevin Aylward, is calling on DFO to conduct their in-season review and release their decision as soon as possible.

"Early reports from all over the province are showing positive salmon returns over last year's numbers," Aylward said. "People have been telling me that the salmon runs are really healthy this year and that they should be able to catch at least their four salmon."

The minister is urging officials from DFO to allow the extra three salmon to be taken, if it is possible within the limits of conservation. "While I am optimistic that DFO can allow anglers to take their four salmon this summer, I do not want the future returns placed in jeopardy.

"Since the discrepancy between the Maritime and Newfoundland Salmon Management Plans puts Newfoundlanders at a disadvantage, the least that DFO could do is, if at all possible, reduce the level of disparity," Minister Aylward said. "Many residents are anxious to find out the results of the in-season review and the preliminary reports of good returns further questions such a low angler quota. Further, tourists, who are anxious to come to the province, are discouraged because right now they are only allowed to catch one fish here, while they can catch up to eight in New Brunswick. Quite simply, it is not fair to Newfoundland and Labrador."

The minister hopes to hear a positive response from DFO as soon as possible.

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

1998 06 30 12:50 p.m.