OTTAWA, ON - A new national survey shows that a very strong majority of Canadians want fisheries where everyone respects fishing regulations and the rules are enforced by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Commissioned by a coalition of fisherman's organizations and conducted by Nanos Research, Canadians believe that direct negotiations between the government, Indigenous leaders and fishing organizations are important in managing the fisheries.
"Some individuals are openly breaking the rules meant to keep our fisheries healthy and sustainable," says Maritime Fishermen's Union President Gaetan Robichaud. "We need the Government of Canada to protect the public good. That means cracking down on all fishing outside of government established fishing seasons immediately. Inaction puts the future of the fisheries at risk for everyone," according to Colin Sproul of the Bay of Fundy Inshore Fishermen's Association.
The research suggests that average Canadians are on the same page as Canada's leading fishing organizations. About nine in ten Canadians (89%) say it is important to ensure everyone respects the fishing regulations based on the principles of sustainability and more than eight in 10 (87%) say it's important to enforce the rules set by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
"Canadians would be shocked to learn that the Government of Canada is inconsistent in enforcing its own rules meant to protect the fisheries. Licensed fishermen who respect the rules are witnessing government inaction. It must end," says Bernie Berry of the Coldwater Lobster Association.
The same national survey also suggests solutions. Eight in 10 Canadians (79%) believe it is important to have the Government, Indigenous Leaders and fishing organizations negotiate directly together to manage the fisheries.
Source : Cision