FFAW-Unifor welcomes positive outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador lobster stocks

FFAW-Unifor is welcoming the latest Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) American lobster stock assessment, which points to continued growth, strong recruitment and increased productivity across Newfoundland and Labrador's lobster fishery.

The assessment reports that lobster landings across Newfoundland remain near record highs, with strong recruitment and increasing catch rates. DFO also identifies warming ocean conditions as favourable for lobster production.

FFAW-Unifor Secretary-Treasurer Sherry Glynn says the positive results reflect years of conservation efforts by inshore harvesters.

“The findings reported in today’s assessment reflect years of conservation work by inshore harvesters that has helped protect and sustain the lobster resource,” says Glynn.

3Ps harvester Alfred Fitzpatrick credits harvesters for the fishery's success, pointing to conservation measures that have helped maintain healthy stocks.

Fitzpatrick highlights shortened fishing seasons, trap limits and v-notching practices, which protect egg-producing female lobsters.

He says the fishery's continued success is largely the result of harvesters taking responsibility for the sustainability of the resource.