DFO Seeks Input On Blue Economy Regulatory Review
The Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is currently seeking input on a Blue Economy Regulatory Review.
The review aims to identify regulatory and administrative barriers to sustainable growth in the ocean economy and to facilitate the development of agile regulations. According to DFO, the feedback received will inform the Blue Economy Regulatory Roadmap.
Consultation themes include Marine Renewable Energy and Environmental Protection, Marine Spatial Planning, Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships, Ocean Technology, and Sustainable Fishing Gear and Practices.
Ocean industry stakeholders and other interested groups or individuals in regulatory issues are invited to share their views on the proposed themes through an online platform or via email by March 31, 2023.
Click here to access the survey.
Foreign Ownership Petition
The United Fishermen and Allied Workers’ Union has launched a Parliamentary Petition requesting an immediate stop to any further foreign ownership or beneficial interest in Canadian licenses and quotas.
This petition aims to prevent any further transfer of Canadian commercial fishing licenses and quotas to foreign ownership or interest, which currently causes economic losses to domestic fish processing and processing jobs in Canada and displaces Canadian owner-operator fish harvesters.
The petition aligns with the House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans’ 2019 recommendation on Sharing Risks and Benefits.
The petition is open for signatures until March 22nd and aims to promote the benefits of commercial fisheries to flow into coastal communities and safeguard small-scale fish harvesters.
Click here to sign the petition!
The BC Young Fishermen’s Gathering
The BC Young Fishermen’s Network Gathering is an upcoming event that offers a great opportunity for new and aspiring fishermen to come together and build a support network while gaining knowledge about the industry.
The event will feature presentations from fishermen on major West Coast fisheries and experts on the business side of fishing, including finance and marketing.
Attendees will have the chance to participate in hands-on activities related to gear and boat maintenance and learn about fisheries management, science and policy, and the future of fishing.
The Gathering will take place over three days from March 22nd to March 24th, 2023 in Campbell River, BC at the Maritime Heritage Centre.