Minister comments on meeting with FFAW and processors

Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Yvonne Jones today met with the FFAW and processors to discuss the shutdown in the crab and shrimp fisheries.

"I have just finished meeting with representatives from the FFAW and processors to discuss the ongoing dispute over the closure of these fisheries throughout the province. The group has asked for more time to continue with their discussions, " said Minister Jones. "I have indicated that I have no problem with some extra time but I reinforced the urgency for a resolution to this as soon as possible. I will be able to report the progress from these discussions on Monday.

"These closures are severely impacting our communities and the dispute has to be settled. A consensus has not been reached at this point and we will continue to work through the weekend. Officials from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture and myself will spend the weekend meeting with the union and processors to try and gain a consensus on how to settle this dispute.

"Discussions have been ongoing all week and both the union and processors have indicated their willingness to continue discussions. During our meeting this afternoon, I reminded the processors and union, that government expects the industry to arrive at a consensus and quickly. There is no tolerance for such interruptions at this time.

"People know what the situation is in the fishery industry in Newfoundland Labrador today. We�ve been through cod closures, we�ve seen reductions in quotas in other species. We have so many people in communities that are dependent upon this income. We do not want to see a closure of the crab fishery or the shrimp fishery as a result of this dispute. We want to see a healthy and stable fishery. I will continue to be actively engaged in these discussions."

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, Communications, (709) 729 3733

2003 05 30                                      4:55 p.m.