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Reopening of Commercial Cod Fishery: Welcome News for Seafood Producers

CANADA
Friday, June 28, 2024, 07:00 (GMT + 9)

Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, made a historic decision to reopen the commercial cod fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador; welcome news for seafood producers in this province.

“The iconic cod fishery was once a mainstay and has been the backbone of our province,” says Jeff Loder, Executive Director, Association of Seafood Producers. “The reopening of the commercial fishery will be well-received by our coastal communities, harvesters, plant workers, local businesses, and others who rely on the fishery for their livelihoods.”

The 2024-25 season will open with a total allowable catch set at 18,000 tonnes, an increase of 38 per cent over last year. This one-year decision is a positive sign for the industry, with hopes of sustaining the commercial cod fishery for years to come.

The Association of Seafood Producers (ASP), in partnership with the Atlantic Groundfish Council (AGC), together with the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership and customers in the US, Canada, UK and France, have been leading a Fishery Improvement Project focused on Northern Cod, to work towards sustainability for this important renewable resource.

“ASP and its members look forward to working with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and other stakeholders to continue to sustainably rebuild this important fishery,” adds Loder. “We will continue to work towards Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for 2J3KL Northern Cod through the Fishery Improvement Project.”

Source: Association of Seafood Producers

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