Premier and federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans discuss key issues

Premier Danny Williams met yesterday with Geoff Regan, federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and is encouraged by the cooperative and collaborative nature of their conversation.

"I am delighted that we had this opportunity to sit down and discuss some of the challenges facing the fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador," said the Premier. "The fishing industry remains one of the leading economic contributors in this province. A strong working relationship with the federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans will contribute to efficient, responsible and effective management of this vital resource."

Custodial management, salmon poaching, aquaculture, the cod closure and the seal hunt were the key issues discussed during yesterday's meeting. Fisheries-related issues impact Newfoundlanders and Labradorians not only economically, but socially and culturally as well. Premier Williams said yesterday's meeting was his opportunity to clearly convey his concerns to Minister Regan.

"We talked about several issues of importance to this province, including custodial management of the fishery, an initiative that our government continues to support," added the Premier. "I also spoke with the minister about salmon poaching. I told him that almost 69 per cent of Atlantic Salmon caught in Canada are caught in this province. Poaching is an obstacle that further depletes stocks and is a real threat to recovery, jeopardizing the future of recreational fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador. Policing poaching is a federal responsibility and I asked Minister Regan for additional funding in this regard. As well, we talked about the cod closure, aquaculture initiatives and the need to address overpopulation of the grey seal herd."

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Communications, (709) 729-3960 or (709) 690-5500

2004 03 17                                        4:55 p.m.