Legislation to Strengthen, Protect Nova Scotia's Commercial Fishery

The province is helping to strengthen, protect and organize the commercial fishery in Nova Scotia.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau will introduce the Fish Harvesters Registration and Certification Act today, April 26.

"This legislation is industry-led and will provide a tool to better meet future challenges," said Mr. Belliveau. "It will help establish a board that will register and certify fish harvesters based on their knowledge and experience. It will also support skills and training opportunities."

Government worked closely with industry groups in 2010 to successfully pilot a registration and certification program, spearheaded by the Nova Scotia Fisheries Sector Council.

"This is an exciting opportunity for the industry in Nova Scotia," said council executive director Lisa Fitzgerald. "Over the last 20 years, it has been working towards a program that will allow an industry-led registration and training system for fishermen.

"The legislation will provide the tool that we need to work with Fisheries and Ocean's Canada about the personal fishing registration fee being directed back to industry. These funds would be used to support training and a registration system for fishermen."

The new legislation will strengthen rural communities by helping to revitalize and develop the commercial fishery.

An amendment to the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act will also be tabled to streamline identifying and prosecuting offenders.