Justice and Public Safety
May 20, 2016

Protecting our Valuable Fish Resources

Minister Encourages the Public to Report Suspected Illegal Activity

As various angling seasons open across the province, the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division would like to encourage the public to report any suspected illegal activity and to help "Put poachers in focus."

In 2015, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers laid 162 fishing related charges for offences such as illegal netting, jigging, exceeding the bag limit, and angling during a closed season. The majority of these charges resulted in convictions and subsequent fines, prohibitions, and forfeiture of equipment.

"Newfoundland and Labrador is fortunate to have world-renowned fish stocks and everyone in the province has a part to play by reporting suspected illegal activity. A significant number of investigations are launched after we receive information from the public and we encourage that support to continue this angling season."
- The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

Unfortunately, many of these illegal acts also result in the destruction of salmon stocks and have a long term, negative impact on the overall health of the population.

"Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers work around the clock, 365 days of the year to apprehend the most serious violators who have no regard for our natural resources. Through the public's continued assistance, our officers can respond in a timely manner to the incidents that are having detrimental impacts on our fish populations."
- James Maloney, Director, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division

Suspicious activity can be reported at any time of the day and anonymity is guaranteed. Simply call 1-877-820-0999 to speak to an officer or to go to www.stoppoaching.ca and click "Report Poaching Online". The public can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.nlcrimestoppers.com . For regular updates, the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division can be followed on Twitter @FWE_GovNL.

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2016 05 20                              12:10 p.m.