Government agrees to Market Freedom and Increased Competition in fishery

On Friday Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Elvis Loveless held meetings with the FFAW and some of its harvester members.

There will be some policy changes that will improve market access in the industry.

Government has agreed to allow applications from outside buyers in all species, to undertake an independent review of the provincial licensing policy in the province, as well as to implement a Committee that will monitor capacity levels during the crab season.

The changes come on the heels of fish harvesters who have been protesting at government buildings across the province, particularly at the Confederation Building in St. John’s demanding ‘free enterprise.’

“Today is a victory for the people of our province. What has been accomplished by the power of collective action is no small feat. This is a great first step in restoring balance, as harvesters take back control and increase competition in the market,” says Greg Pretty, FFAW-Unifor President. “Plant workers need successful fish harvesters if there’s going to be a future in this industry,” Pretty says.

The provincial government has agreed to provide the agreement in writing, detailing all of the agreed-upon policy changes.

Minister Loveless said, "I am pleased to share that it was a productive meeting that has led to positive outcomes intended to support FFAW harvesters, plant workers, and all stakeholders in our province’s valuable fishing industry. We all share the same goal of seeing an organized start to the 2024 fishing season."