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September 5, 1997
(Fisheries and Aquaculture)

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister John Efford says he is pleased that the federal government is permitting a food fishery on the south and west coasts, but the decision not to have one in the northern cod zones raises concerns about conflicting information on the state of the northern cod stock.

"It is extremely frustrating to have a situation where fishermen are reporting a significant presence of northern cod in certain areas, but the scientific information available indicates that the status of the stock has not changed. I am convinced that we must have additional information to enable scientists to make predictions about the stock with confidence. An accurate picture of the state of the northern cod stock must be obtained. This is the very least that must be done for the benefit of people and coastal communities that have traditionally relied on that stock for a livelihood. Otherwise, it will be extremely difficult for people and communities to make necessary decisions about their futures," he said.

He said it is essential that there be strong collaboration between fish harvesters, the scientific community and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. In this context, Mr. Efford said that the Chair in Fisheries Conservation at Memorial University must also play a greater role in scientific research with respect to the northern cod resource.

"This Chair, under the direction of Dr. George Rose, has already undertaken some very credible research. The Province will be requesting that this Chair undertake further research on northern cod and will receive the full support of the Province in an expanded research program," he said. This expanded research, he noted, will assist governments in addressing future management decisions for this stock.

Mr. Efford noted that the most recent announcement on the state of the northern cod resource comes at a time when communities and industry participants are facing many challenges.

"This by itself," he said, "further establishes a critical need for an increased science commitment by the Government of Canada in understanding the dynamics of the northern cod resource."

Mr. Efford also noted that the most recent scientific report by the Scientific Council of NAFO on the northern cod resource "clearly links the impact of an expanding seal population on the recovery of the northern cod resource. This impact is clearly evident and reinforces statements I have made previously on this issue. Given this information, the Province will be seeking the full support of the Government of Canada for an expanded seal harvest in 1998 and beyond."

Mr. Efford said that while significant steps have been taken in diversifying our fishery, the recovery of the northern cod stock is critical to the future of many communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"Every avenue must therefore be explored to ensure that the stock does recover, and that fishing mortality is reduced to the lowest level possible. From this perspective, the Province will work closely with the

Government of Canada to address issues arising from the most recent scientific advice, including economic diversification and income support measures," he said.

Contact: Josephine Cheeseman, Director of Communications, (709) 729-3733