Fishermen Move Toward Consensus

Fishermen wrapping up a two-day meeting in Truro said they will unite to support the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture by pledging to develop a common position for all fishermen on issues affecting them.

A proposal to either create a minister's council of fishermen, or for industry associations to get together again to continue to find common ground, came after this week's meeting concluded at the Agri-Tech Conference Centre. More than 50 commercial fishing organizations put aside individual issues and concentrated on the bigger picture.

"The goal going in was to build consensus," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell. "I am encouraged there was so much agreement. It is historic. This is a great first step.

"We want a united and combined voice for the fishing industry in Nova Scotia. The fishermen are agreeing to work with our department and with the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans to secure a solid future and to put people back to work."

Mr. Colwell added the event initiates a new era for the Nova Scotia fishery. "We won't be afraid to take on DFO in Ottawa and locally if necessary, to make sure Nova Scotia gets a better deal. Confrontation doesn't always work, but a strong voice will accomplish a tremendous amount."

Mr. Colwell pledged to take a united voice to a meeting of Eastern Canadian fisheries ministers, taking place in Charlottetown today and Friday. He said he hopes there can be a united voice for the fisheries in Eastern Canada.

Sam Elsworth of Sambro Fisheries said he was pleased and refreshed by the meeting. "The right spirit was here to make this work," said Mr. Elsworth, active in the industry for more than 30 years.

Pat Fougere of the Canso Trawlermen's Co-Op said the fishermen at the meeting showed a lot of co-operation. "I think it stands good for the future of a more vibrant industry," he said.

Another meeting of the group is tentatively scheduled in six months' time.