St. John’s, NL (September 10, 2024) – PC Leader Tony Wakeham is renewing his call for joint fisheries management in light of recent revelations that Trudeau's Fisheries Minister, Diane Lebouthillier, ignored scientific advice by reopening the commercial cod fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador.

When officials from the Furey Liberal government were asked for input on the commercial cod fishery on April 9, they declined to offer any recommendations. However, on June 26, the Premier celebrated the end of the moratorium, only to reverse course less than a week later, on July 3, when he wrote to Minister Lebouthillier to express his dissatisfaction with the decision.

Minister Lebouthillier ignored scientific recommendations and reopened this commercial fishery.

This decision continues a troubling pattern of "Ottawa-knows-best" politics that overlooks the unique needs of Newfoundland and Labrador.

"These actions are not about supporting the fishery—they are a desperate attempt to save face for Justin Trudeau and the silent six Liberal MPs from this province," Wakeham added. "Premier Andrew Furey's failure to provide input before the decision was made demonstrates that the Liberals are completely out of touch with rural Newfoundland and Labrador."

Wakeham emphasized that joint fisheries management would grant Newfoundland and Labrador a direct role in decision-making, ensuring that local voices—not Ottawa—shape the future of the fishery.

"We need joint management, where Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have a seat at the table," continued Wakeham.

"This resource has been mismanaged since Confederation, and now we're on the brink of another collapse. We can't afford to wait any longer. Andrew Furey has failed to make our voice heard. Instead, he's chosen photo-ops with his friend Justin Trudeau over standing up for our fishery. The fishery is vital to our economy and our communities. As Premier, I will advocate for joint management and restore confidence to those working in this industry."

The Liberals have neglected the fishery for too long. A Wakeham PC government will prioritize revitalizing the fishery to rejuvenate rural Newfoundland and Labrador. By focusing on joint fisheries management and collaborating with industry, we will build a robust fishery that creates jobs, supports young harvesters, and stimulates economic growth in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.