The Government of Canada is working hard to protect our oceans and the marine life they sustain. Lost, abandoned and discarded fishing gear, or ghost gear, can stay in our water for hundreds of years, causing harm to marine mammals, fisheries, and habitats. Through the Ghost Gear Fund, the Government of Canada has been working with industry and other partners to rid our oceans of ghost gear and create new solutions to reduce fishing debris.
The Government of Canada values the experiences and expertise of coastal Canadians to help inform the sustainable management and development of our ocean resources. Collaboration is key to ensuring our decisions are based on the best available information.
It is imperative that Canada balances healthy ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and the vitality of coastal and Indigenous communities. Hearing from fish harvesters about their experience on the water is critical to finding that balance.
Canada’s high quality, sustainable fish and seafood products are known worldwide. Canada along with the provinces and territories are expanding markets, building on our country’s strong international brand and growing trade opportunities.
The Government of Canada is committed to advancing reconciliation. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is actively working with First Nations across the Maritime provinces and the Gaspé region of Québec to further implement their Treaty right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood while maintaining healthy fisheries for all harvesters for generations to come.
Building on last year’s successful moderate livelihood fishery, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has reached a second interim understanding with Potlotek First Nation that will see their members fishing jakej (lobster) in pursuit of a moderate livelihood and selling their catch under Potlotek’s Netukulimk Livelihood Fisheries Plan and a DFO-issued authorization. The plan was developed by the community with support from the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs and Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO).
The Government of Canada is committed to regenerating Canada’s fish stocks so they can continue to provide Canadians with food, income, and employment opportunities for generations to come. Under Canada’s Fisheries Act, modernized in 2019, the Government of Canada has taken steps to promote healthier marine ecosystems and more sustainable fish stocks across the country.
Vancouver, BC – The regeneration of wild Pacific salmon populations is fundamental to rebuilding a healthy ocean ecosystem. Wild Pacific salmon are also vitally important for food and cultural purposes, of many Indigenous communities throughout British Columbia. This is why protecting wild salmon stocks and their habitat is a priority for both the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
Canada’s fisheries are the backbone of many coastal communities and a driving force of the economy. The seafood sector is a rapidly shifting environment – competition is intensifying, consumers are looking for sustainability and quality. That is why the Government of Canada and the Province of Prince Edward Island (PEI) today announced funding support to the Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association (PEIFA) through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF).
The Great Lakes are critically important to Canadians, to our environment, and to our economy. Through Budget 2022: A plan to Grow Our Economy and Make Life More Affordable, the Government of Canada is making strategic investments to protect our freshwater fishery resources, the economies, and people who rely upon them.
