Wakeham Urges Furey-Trudeau Liberals to Release Recreational Food Fishery Dates

For Immediate Release

(June 21, 2024 St. John’s, N.L.) – Tony Wakeham, Leader of Newfoundland and Labrador's Progressive Conservatives, calls on the Federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Diane Lebouthillier to release the 2024 recreational food fishery dates.

Wakeham said he's heard from dozens from across the province wondering when this year's dates and conditions will be released as people begin to make their summer plans to participate in the fishery.

"While touring the province, I'm hearing directly from residents and tourism operators who are pushing for these dates to be released much sooner to allow individuals to prepare to participate in the fishery," said Wakeham. "These dates should have been released long before now. In recent years, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans has delayed the announcement of recreational cod fishery dates and regulations until late June, which disadvantages fishers and tourists in scheduling their participation in this fishery."

Wakeham hopes the Minister will also consider the potential economic benefits of an extended fishery, as recommended by Coast of Bays—Central—Notre Dame MP Clifford Small. Expanding the current three-day weekend fishery to a recreational fishery that encompasses every day of the week from July 1 to October 1 could significantly boost tourism and local economies while maximizing safety.

"Our recreational food fishery is not just a pastime; it's a part of our cultural heritage. It's a tradition that must be preserved and celebrated, but not at the cost of safety. By extending the dates of the recreational food fishery to encompass weekdays and weekends, we are ensuring that people from all walks of life can participate in this tradition both responsibly and safely. I urge the Furey-Trudeau Liberals to announce these dates, immediately.

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