Fisheries Ministers Come to Table with Lobster Industry

Following through on a commitment to hold formal discussions with industry to address challenges of the region's lobster sector, fisheries ministers from the Maritime provinces attended a round-table discussion in Dartmouth earlier today, Feb. 13.

"A number of viable solutions to building a strong lobster industry in the future have been brought to the table, such as co-operation, strong inventory systems, sound marketing and supportive programs as being key," said Ron Chisholm, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture for Nova Scotia. "I am convinced that now is the time for industry to demonstrate solid collaboration. To succeed, we must work together."

The provincial ministers were joined by Gail Shea, federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.

"The lobster industry has faced challenges in the past, but not often on the scale we are seeing now. There were worthwhile proposals raised today, and I am pleased that the industry and my provincial colleagues share my commitment to initiatives on both the demand and supply sides of the lobster market," said Ms. Shea. "We are working diligently to create a higher profile for Canadian lobster in wholesale, retail and foodservice markets.

"Measures in our government's Economic Action Plan will also help the industry to weather the current storm."

The goal of the round table was to have industry and government leaders examine and discuss ways industry stakeholders can achieve a sustainable and profitable sector. The round table focused on issues such as trade challenges affecting market access and growth, a lobster-specific marketing strategy and evaluation of Marine Stewardship Council certification for lobster.

The round-table participants acknowledged the pressures that low wharf prices put on the industry in the fall. The global economic situation had a dramatic effect on all luxury purchases, including lobster.

"I believe we made it clear today that there is a need for more and better information related to the supply and inventory of lobster products," said Neil LeClair, Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development for Prince Edward Island. "We all know that lobsters are landed in a relatively short period of time during the respective seasons around the region, what we need now is solid information about how much is sold, in what form, and what remains in inventory."

All parties attending today's meeting agreed that there are no quick fixes or easy solutions and are committed to continue to work closely together.

"There are a number of items we have identified where we think all three provinces could work together not only to deal with the current challenges, but even more importantly, to help us avoid being in a similar situation in the future," said Rick Doucet, Minister of Fisheries for New Brunswick. "We must capitalize on lobster product attributes such as high quality, safe, healthy choice, sustainability and convenience."