February 15, 1999
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Minister releases the Report of the Task Force on Recreational Fishing Issues in Southern Labrador

Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today released the Report of the Task Force on Recreational Fishing Issues in Southern Labrador together with government's preliminary response to the report.

"The information gathered directly from the residents has provided the government with valuable input into the development of the recreational fishery in the region. I want to thank all the individuals and organizations who participated in this process. The findings of the report will go a long way towards improving the recreational fishery on the south coast of Labrador," says Furey.

In late 1996, Premier Tobin established the Task Force to identify constraints and to advise government on how the recreational fishery on the south coast of Labrador could be improved for area residents. The Task Force held public meetings in nine communities along the Southern Coast of Labrador, with a total attendance of more than 160 people.

"The work of the Task Force has already prompted changes within provincial regulations that will benefit Labrador's recreational fishery. This past October, changes were announced to the province's guiding regulations which will see greater benefits accrue to residents of the area. Specifically, changes to the regulations will permit licenced tourist establishments and independent guides in Labrador to cater to non-resident anglers," says Furey.

Of the 16 recommendations made by the Task Force, 10 fall under the jurisdiction of the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. For example, the further development of the recreational salmon fishery is largely contingent upon adequate stock assessment on a river by river basis. This matter falls exclusively within federal domain. Minister Furey together with Kevin Aylward, Minister for Forest Resources and Agrifoods, will be formally transmitting the report to the federal government with a view to advancing these and other issues.

Furey added: "The Task Force has proven to be a vital link to the residents of the south coast on all matters relating to the future of the recreational fishery. Because of government's continuing need for community input on this economic issue, I have asked the chairperson, Mr. Wally Andersen, MHA for Torngat Mountains, to continue to chair this group and to report annually to myself and the other ministers involved."

Media contact: Tara Laing, (709) 729-0928.

1999 02 15 3:10 p.m.