Keith Ashfield, Canada’s Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, met with US Administration officials in Washington, DC this week to discuss bilateral and multilateral fisheries management and related issues.
He said that the status of the Canada-US Pacific Albacore Treaty was top of mind and he reiterated Canada’s desire to continue negotiating its prompt renewal, so that both Canada and the United States can continue to benefit from this valuable longstanding arrangement.
He said, “The Treaty is an excellent example of cross-border cooperation that has helped achieve long-term stability, enhanced management practices, and opportunities for fishermen and businesses in both countries. Not renewing this treaty could represent a potential loss of $16 million annually and corresponding jobs in the Pacific Northwest.”
He said that aquatic invasive species, particularly Asian carp, were also discussed. Asian carp have not yet made their way into the Great Lakes system or in Canadian waters, but both Canada and the US recognise the potential impact this species could have on important commercial and recreational fisheries.
Minister Ashfield said, “I want to recognise the United States’ leadership and work on this matter and thank them for their partnership. We agreed to continue our long standing relationship of working together to prevent the spread of invasive species, particularly Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes system.”
Additionally, following meetings the Minister has had with lobster fishermen in Atlantic Canada, he indicated to his counterparts that industry are experiencing delays getting their product into the United States. It was agreed that the respective enforcement agencies need to address this issue.
