January 13, 1999
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister calls on Ottawa to annouce decisions on salmon plan

In early December, Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, and department officials met with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in Ottawa to discuss the salmon plan for 1999 season.

"We stated to the officials of DFO that it is imperative that the plan be announced in January, early enough for the industry and the public to prepare for the season. We requested a fair management plan that is based on conservation and provides a decent opportunity for anglers. The dates need to be set in advance of the season and opportunity must be provided to make arrangements." said Minister Aylward.

"Newfoundland and Labrador has the majority of salmon rivers in Atlantic Canada. We want the salmon management plan to be fair and to have the support of the users of the resource. We understand that recommendations have been made by senior officials of DFO in Atlantic Canada to the federal minister. We want him to act and make the decision as soon as possible."

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

1999 01 13 4:55 p.m.