FFAW-Unifor calling for more mackerel stock surveys amid fishing moratorium

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — The FFAW-Unifor is asking on the Division of Fisheries and Oceans to search out out if the moratorium on mackerel fishing is critical through the use of science alternatives.

FFAW-Unifor is asking for the funding in new science alternatives as harvesters are reporting an abundance of mackerel, regardless of Fisheries Minister Joyce Murray inserting a moratorium on mackerel fishing.

The union referred to as the moratorium an unjustified and drastic step that was not wanted as fishers declare mackerel populations are growing.

The union added that the division’s assessments and administration plans don’t mirror the information of fish harvesters.

“As harvesters, we all know that DFO is considerably underestimating the biomass of mackerel,” stated FFAW-Unifor president Keith Sullivan.

FFAW-Unifor alleges the division has failed to handle their issues or reap the benefits of new inventory survey alternatives and as an alternative declared a moratorium.

“Asserting a moratorium on the mackerel fishery with out investing in new science alternatives is yet one more instance of how DFO would fairly remove livelihoods fairly than do the work that must be achieved,” stated Sullivan.

“DFO is regularly failing to adequately assess species which are important to the financial system of Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Fishermen have been reporting giant numbers of mackerels seen from the floor and are having problem reconciling with DFO’s claims that mackerels are a species of concern, stated the FFAW in a information launch.

Because of this, Sullivan is asking on the DFO to spend money on additional inventory survey alternatives.

“Minister Murray should decide to understanding this inventory with complete scientific assessments. The present understanding of mackerel is woefully insufficient, and we can’t let one other season go by with out taking motion.”