Maritime Surveillance Important to Maintaining a
Sustainable Prosperous Fishery

Provincial Minister Participates in Federal Government Surveillance Flight

Efforts to patrol domestic and international fishing activity in the waters surrounding the province were recently observed by the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. Minister Hutchings participated in an aerial surveillance flight and observed how foreign fishing activity is monitored and recorded by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

“I appreciated the opportunity to witness first-hand the maritime monitoring activity by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The monitoring and enforcement of quotas and regulations is important to the well-being of all fishing activity in Atlantic Canada, and I was pleased to see the thorough and professional job that is carried out.”
- The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture

During a five-hour flight, Minister Hutchings observed the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ contracted team of pilots, sensor operators, and mission managers collecting data aboard a sophisticated fixed-wing surveillance aircraft.

“I want to thank the crew members who took me on the flight, and commend them for the high calibre monitoring activity they perform on a daily basis. I take great pride in knowing that Provincial Aerospace, a locally-owned company, has been providing high-end aerial surveillance services to protect our fish resources for more than 25 years.”
- Minister Hutchings

In addition to conducting aerial surveillance, fishing activity is also monitored continuously by the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) using satellite monitoring, observers onboard foreign fishing vessels, and observers who monitor landings at docks throughout the world. The Provincial Government regularly participates in NAFO meetings to discuss resource management, quota allocations, and measures undertaken to protect fish resources.

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries, and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• Minister Hutchings recently participated in maritime aerial surveillance activity by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
• In keeping with its mandate to manage Canada's fisheries in a sustainable manner, the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans is responsible for enforcing the Fisheries Act and other regulations and legislation.
• Enforcement activities are carried out by fishery officers across Canada who conduct regular patrols on the land and sea, and in the air.
• The Department of Fisheries and Oceans also promotes compliance with the law through education and awareness activities that encourage Canadians to protect fishery resources and habitats.

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Media contact:
Jason Card
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
709-729-3733, 699-0470
jasoncard@gov.nl.ca 

2013 12 16                                     3:50 p.m.