Discussions on the stability of long-standing proportionate quota shares are ones we take extremely seriously. Ad hoc decisions to destabilize those shares would have long-lasting impacts on people, communities and the future of the fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Canada. We believe those discussions and debates need to be grounded in factual information and […]
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Despite Punching Above its Weight, Canada’s Fish and Seafood Sector has an Opportunity for Growth in Canada’s Blue Economy Strategy
(Article first appeared as Guest Column in the Navigator Magazine) Over the last six months, the fishing industry has been seized by the announcement and supporting consultation on the development of Canada’s Blue Economy Strategy. Roundtables have been held, papers have been produced, and the seafood sector enthusiastically participated, providing the Minister with their perspectives […]
Atlantic Groundfish Council’s reaction to Canada-France consensus to reduce south coast cod TAC by 50%
On April 1st, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada announced that an agreement in principle had been reached with France to reduce the south coast (3Ps) cod quota by 50% from last year, meaning a total allowable catch (TAC) of 1,346 mt. Council members are relieved that a closure of the fishery was avoided, although this […]
As DFO releases annual science update on Northern Cod, Atlantic Groundfish Council members are focused on aiding stock recovery through world class cod acoustic tracking project
Today, the updated science assessment for the iconic Northern Cod stock (zone 2J3KL) was presented to industry and stakeholders by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The assessment demonstrated that the stock has been holding steady since 2017 and is projecting some growth in the near future. “The projected stock growth is encouraging but also […]
Industry takes unprecedented action, withdraws from Canadian Delegation for 3Ps cod negotiations with France, citing inability to support position taken by DFO
(March 23, 2021 – St. John’s, NL) – The Atlantic Groundfish Council has taken an unprecedented step in reaction to the Government of Canada’s stated intent to implement a moratorium on directed fishing of the 3Ps cod stock. Industry participants were informed of this position just days before bilateral negotiations with France were set to […]
Atlantic Groundfish Council recommends rollover of total allowable catch for south coast cod
Today, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) held its annual Groundfish Advisory Council meeting where industry stakeholders discuss a variety of groundfish stocks, including 3Ps cod located off the south coast of Newfoundland. “The Atlantic Groundfish Council’s recommendation for the 2021-2022 3Ps cod fishery is a rollover of the 2020-2021 total allowable catch […]
Northern Cod Rebuilding Plan Emphasizes Canada’s Commitment to Recovery of Iconic Stock
On December 21, Fisheries and Oceans Canada released its rebuilding plan for the iconic Northern Cod (2J3KL) stock that resides on the Labrador Shelf and the northern Grand Banks off Newfoundland. The primary objective of this rebuilding plan is to promote stock growth out of the Critical Zone by keeping catch from all fishing sources […]
Atlantic Groundfish Council remains committed to responsible harvesting and optimistic about the long-term future of the south coast cod fishery
This year, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) issued a presentation deck in lieu of a technical briefing on the latest science assessment for the 3Ps cod stock, located off the south coast of Newfoundland. This is an important fishery for members of the Atlantic Groundfish Council and to rural economies. Although the offshore […]
Atlantic Groundfish Council Reiterates Commitment to Sustainable Recovery of Northern Cod
Year-round harvesters caution that 2020 catch should be limited to 2019 catch of 10,000mt (April 22, 2020 – St. John’s, NL) – The industry group that represents year-round groundfish harvesters across Atlantic Canada is reacting to the 2020 Northern Cod (2J3KL) science assessment released by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) on Friday. While […]
Statement from the Canadian Association of Prawn Producers and the Atlantic Groundfish Council on their response to the evolving COVID-19 situation
“Our members have proactively prepared for the impact of COVID-19 for all aspects of their operations including the vessels, and plants and offices through to market distribution. They want to ensure that employees are protected and healthy, applying screening protocols, restricting access to only employees and essential contractors, and preparing to implement emergency response plans. […]