Lennox Island First Nation reaches interim agreement on treaty fishery with DFO
Lennox Island First Nation has reached an interim settlement with the Fisheries and Oceans Canada to proceed its reasonable livelihood fishery.
The fishery first launched on Might 7 with out assist from the DFO, that means there was a threat there’s a threat of getting the division disrupt the fishery or seize traps.
Nonetheless, the band introduced it has come to an understanding with the federal fisheries division in a Might 12 information launch, but it surely famous there’s nonetheless no signed settlement between the 2 events.
“I’ve at all times remained optimistic that we may attain an understanding and I’m joyful to obtain DFO’s assist for our administration plan which can guarantee the protection and safety of our members whereas on the water and of their gear and gear which is essential to us,” stated Lennox Island Chief Darlene Bernard.
The band stated the settlement is much like that of six Nova Scotia bands, the place treaty fisheries are allowed to proceed following band administration plans.
Underneath the plan, the Lennox Island reasonable livelihood fishery will proceed with the DFO’s approval based mostly on a complete most of 1000 traps — 300 traps in LFA 24 and 700 traps in LFA 25.
Accredited fishers might be allowed to fish as much as 100 traps with a most of three fishers on one boat.
Bernard stated the settlement is welcome information for fishers who not want to fret about their gear being seized.
“It can be crucial that Mi’kmaq fishers can train their rights with out worry of their gear or gear being seized or vandalized. That’s the reason we now have been clear, sharing our plan with DFO from the onset and persevering with to be open to discussions,” stated Bernard.
