FFAW Welcomes New Federal Fisheries Minister
July 26, 2023 – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s federal cabinet shuffle today has announced Diane Lebouthillier as the new Minister for Fisheries and Oceans, replacing the Joyce Murray as the federal head of fisheries management. The Union that represents all inshore fish harvesters in Newfoundland and Labrador looks forward to working with Minister Lebouthillier, hoping for a renewed focus on robust science and economically sustainable management.
“I want to thank Minister Joyce Murray for the time spent in the portfolio and her directness with me during the months we worked together,” says FFAW-Unifor President Greg Pretty. “I am very much looking forward to meeting with Minister Lebouthillier in the coming days and our members hope that, going forward, DFO White Hills will have an ‘open for business’ approach to better collaborate with fish harvesters,” Pretty says.
FFAW-Unifor, which represents over 14,000 working Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, has several pressing issues requiring federal attention, such as northern cod, seal overpopulation, redfish, inadequate science surveys in most commercial species, as well as the economic support proposal for those affected by a 70% downturn this year in the crab industry.
“It’s clear there is a disconnect between fish harvesters and DFO in Ottawa. My goal is to work with Minister Lebouthillier to bridge that gap and ensure harvesters’ voices are not only heard, but respected, by the federal decision makers who control their livelihood,” concludes Pretty.
For inquiries,
Courtney Glode (she/her)
FFAW-Unifor
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