Tracadie-Sheila (N.B.) – The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Gulf Region, today announced the latest sentences imposed to fish harvesters for violating the Atlantic Fishery Regulations, 1985.
Mr. Robert Robichaud - Lobster
On October 20, 2008, at the Richibucto Provincial Court, Mr. Robichaud of Pointe Sapin, N.B., pleaded guilty to having fished with or had on board his vessel, lobster traps without valid tags issued by DFO, contrary to Section 62(1) of the Atlantic Fishery Regulations, 1985.
Provincial Court Judge Joseph Michaud imposed a fine totaling $4,491.75 to Mr. Robichaud for the illegal fishing activity, which included the forfeiture of his lobster catch. He is also prohibited from fishing lobster on the first two days of the 2009 lobster fishing season in Lobster Fishing Area (LFA) 25.
Mr. Sylvio Hébert - Lobster
On October 15, 2008, Mr. Hébert of Kouchibouguac, N.B., pleaded guilty in Richibucto Provincial Court to possession of four illegal sized lobsters and one berried female lobster, contrary to Sections 57(2) and 59(3) of the Atlantic Fishery Regulations, 1985. Provincial Court Judge Joseph Michaud imposed a fine totaling $1,350.00 to Mr. Hébert for illegal possession of a berried female and undersized lobsters.
Both Conservation and Protection cases were handled by Fishery Officers of the Baie Ste-Anne Detachment.
DFO is committed to the conservation and protection of marine resources in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Anyone wishing to report suspicious fishing activities may do so by contacting their nearest DFO office, or by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Michel Thérien
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton (N.B.)
506-851-7704
