Canada: Newfoundland and Labrador fish harvesters' union says members maligned following redfish quota release

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Newfoundland and Labrador’s fish harvesters' union is calling on several parliament members to “step-up or step away” after allocating nearly 60 per cent of the newly commercialized redfish quota to non-unionized members offshore. In a news release, FFAW-Unifor members said the recent redfish management plan – offering in-shore workers less than 15 per cent of the 60,000 tonne total allowable catch – is another blow to a group that has been in “survival mode” since the reductions in northern shrimp quotas. “At the advisory we collectively, with our inshore colleagues in Quebec and New Brunswick, outlined a clear opportunity for a much more equitable decision in terms of the overall share and a fishing plan that worked for our harvesters.” said Jason Spingle, union secretary-treasurer. “While there are some elements of improvement there are many areas that continue to miss the mark.” Despite the Department of Fisheries and Oceans stating the 60,000 tonne limit ...