OTTAWA – The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced the re-appointment of Mr. Troy Atkinson as a Canadian Commissioner to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).
"I am pleased that Mr. Atkinson has accepted to continue to represent Canada as a Commissioner to ICCAT," said Minister Shea. "Canada is well-served by his extensive knowledge of the swordfish fishery and by his long-time experience representing Canada in international fora."
ICCAT is a regional fisheries management organization responsible for the management of tuna, swordfish and other related large pelagics in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. There are currently 48 Contracting Parties to ICCAT that range from North, South and Central America to Europe and Africa, as well as distant water fishing nations in Asia. Canada has been a member since the organization was established in 1969.
Mr. Atkinson is President of the Nova Scotia Swordfishermen's Association, which represents all swordfish longline harvesters in Atlantic Canada. He has participated on the Canadian delegation to ICCAT for over 10 years and his experience as a long-time industry advocate for Atlantic harvesters will continue to be an asset for Canada.
- 30 -
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Phil Jenkins
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-990-7537
Nancy Bishay
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
Internet: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
NR-HQ-09-18E
