Conference Looks for Consensus

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell will host a conference next month bringing together members of Nova Scotia's fishing community.

Representatives from fisheries organizations, unions and processors will join Mr. Colwell to identify issues that can be addressed through industry-wide consensus.

"We need a united front," said the minister. "A forum that addresses issues common to all those in the industry will be a step in that direction."

Meetings during the conference will be informal; those attending will be encouraged to address issues common to the industry. Those invited have been asked to identify some of these to focus discussions.

Meetings will be held Aug. 18-19 in Truro.

Mr. Colwell said he hopes a minister's council can be developed at the gathering. With representation from all industry sectors, a council can be an effective tool for policy development at both the provincial and federal levels, he said.

"The Nova Scotian fishery needs Nova Scotian input," said Mr. Colwell. "A body that can meet regularly will help ensure sound policy development and unity when dealing with Ottawa."