This post was originally published to The Fisherman website. More archived The Fisherman blog posts can be found on our Archive Page.
Problem:
- DFO is negotiating Treaty provisions and Marine Zoning Arrangements with some First Nations without meaningful consultations with the commercial fleet.
Solutions:
- The fleet must be able to meet directly with the DFO and Province to discuss impacts.
- Marine zoning: DFO, the public and First Nations must be educated to understand that fishermen cannot afford to lose large part of their lucrative fishing grounds due to marine zoning (MPAs)
- Treaty talks: Fishermen should meet with First Nations directly and try to negotiate a mutually acceptable interim arrangement while negotiations are taking place
- Approach the First Nation to set up a round table so impacts on the commercial fishery can be considered.
- Commercial fishermen should be able to continue to fish while Treaty / Higher Level discussions are going on
- Real compensation for re-allocation (Not buy-up of non-active licenses)