Minister disturbed by statements that he has abandoned small boat fishermen

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister John Efford said today that he will be meeting with small boat fishermen over the next few weeks to reassure them of his commitment to the survival of the small boat sector in the continued revitalization of the Newfoundland and Labrador fishing industry.

Mr. Efford said recent statements made in the general public suggesting that he has �forgotten� small boat fishermen are very disturbing and he wants to set the record straight about his commitment to this important sector of our growing fishery.

"I have always been committed to helping the traditional small boat sector and will remain committed despite recent remarks made by some people that I have abandoned small boat fishermen. Our fishery today is a new, diversified fishery and I am working diligently to ensure that the small boat sector will continue to play a role in that diversification."

Mr. Efford said he will continue to ensure that diversification, conservation and quality enhancement are the key components in creating a more stable and viable fishery for the future for all industry sectors, particularly the small boat sector.

"In order for our fishery to be become more viable and sustainable an emphasis must be placed on developing new species. I am committed to exploring new opportunities to develop new, emerging species that will ensure our small boat sector remains an important part of our fishery of the future. I am also committed to ensuring that the small boat fishery has fair and equitable access to resources in inshore waters. "

Mr. Efford will be meeting with a group of small boat fishermen in Bay de Verde on Friday, February 11 and will be speaking at a conference in Cape Broyle on Wednesday, February 23. He encourages small boat fishermen to attend these meetings. Mr. Efford added that he will also be meeting with fishers in other areas of the province to address fishery sector challenges, particularly as they affect small boat fishermen.

Media contact: Sonia Glover-Sullivan, Communications, (709) 729-3733.

2000 02 09                                                             12:10 p.m.