Opposition lobbies federal government to reject NAFO amendments

Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones has written the four federal party leaders encouraging them to reject NAFO amendments that were tabled in the House of Commons in June.

“Many people in our province believe these proposed amendments will be detrimental to Canadian sovereignty and fisheries management, and certainly goes against our efforts to achieve custodial management on the nose and tail of the Grand Banks outside the 200 mile limit,” said Ms. Jones. “Giving NAFO members potential jurisdiction to regulate Canadian waters undermines the 200 mile limit that was established in 1977. European countries have proven in the past that their commitment to conservation and best fishery practices are not always reliable. While the federal government is trying to secure Arctic sovereignty, it appears east coast sovereignty is being threatened by these amendments.”

The recent fisheries forum and representation from the Fisheries Community Alliance of Newfoundland and Labrador have highlighted several aspects of the proposed amendments that could have a dramatic impact on the east coast fishery. First, the proposal to change the voting system from a simple majority to a two-thirds majority will make it more difficult for Canada to obtain restrictive conservation decisions and catch limits. Second, allowing NAFO to establish catch and quota regulations within Canadian waters is creating significant anxiety. While some argue that this section will never be used, it is feared that pressure by EU nations could trigger its use in the future, especially during disputes and disagreements. Third, the amendments fail to incorporate enforcement provisions now available under international law. Fourth, the proposal has a weak and ineffective dispute settlement provision to prevent over-fishing.