The 17^th anniversary of the closure of the cod fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador is an important milestone in our Province and an appropriate time to again press upon the Premier the importance of focusing on the long-term viability of the fishing industry suggests Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones.

“While many are reflecting back on July 2,1992, when the cod decimation forced the closure of an entire industry and remembering that tragic day,  people are also looking ahead at a diversified industry that could be enhanced if given the proper government attention, innovation and investment”, says Jones.  “Currently, there is a crisis in the shrimp industry that requires an immediate solution.  There are some 2000 people and a dozen or more communities directly impacted that are gravely affected by this crisis and it is evident the Premier and his government have not been pro-active nor interested enough to “smarten” this industry.

Frustrated shrimp harvesters and processors are staging a protest at a government building in St. John’s to highlight the issue of government inaction and disinterest. “Meanwhile, the Minister of Fisheries refuses to involve himself in the negotiation process, or offer any substantial solutions beyond make-work, and the Premier is doing his typical reality-avoidance excursion by traveling to Europe to visit fishery dignitaries.  This is not cutting it and I am very concerned about the whole approach and the repercussions for people’s lives.

“Rural Newfoundland and Labrador and the fishery have generally fallen off government’s radar over the years. It’s been 6 years since this government was elected and this renewable industry has not been treated as fairly as the non-renewable industries of oil and gas.  It is disheartening to think of the time that has been lost.  At least the fishery would have a better chance to survive and to weather a crisis such as this current one if the government had been more engaged and creative.