Minister broadens scope of consultation concerning the crab and shrimp crisis

Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Yvonne Jones, today broadened the scope of consultations relating to the shutdown in the crab and shrimp fisheries.

"I met this morning with a delegation of fish harvesters accompanied by their union representatives and later I met with a broad group of processors representing approximately 90 per cent of the plant owners. The meeting this evening is with the collective focus group that has been meeting since last week to work toward a resolution to this crisis. Officials of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture have been fully engaged over the weekend and throughout the day, " said Minister Jones. "While discussions are ongoing it would be unproductive for government to interrupt the process, however I feel there is room for movement as long as both parties are still at the table. I will continue to push for an immediate resolution to this crisis"

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

2003 06 02                                       4:40 p.m.