November 17, 2014 - Ottawa, Ontario
The annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) concluded today in Genoa, Italy. Of particular significance to Canada, Commission Members agreed to a moderate increase to the total allowable catch (TAC) of Western Atlantic Bluefin tuna for 2015 and 2016, increasing the TAC from 1,750 tonnes to 2,000 tonnes per year. Based on the 2014 stock assessment update, at this catch level the Western Atlantic Bluefin tuna stock will continue to increase.
Canada’s quota will now be 452.5 tonnes for each of the next two years, with the possibility of an additional annual transfer of up to 108.9 tonnes from Mexico, depending on quota availability.
Canada advocated for this moderate increase to the total allowable catch for Western Atlantic Bluefin tuna. Canada has one of the best managed tuna fisheries in the world – one that is based on scientific advice, effective management, and strict enforcement. As a result of our efforts, the Western Atlantic Bluefin tuna 2014 stock status update indicates the stock has grown substantially in recent years and could support such an increase.
Canada’s leadership role in addressing important questions about the stock status for Atlantic Bluefin tuna included hosting working group meetings of scientists and fisheries managers in both 2013 and 2014. In addition to continuing Canada’s comprehensive research program for Atlantic Bluefin tuna, Canada will continue to work with its international partners on the next full stock assessment, scheduled for 2016, to better understand the overall stock dynamic, including the mixing of the Eastern and Western populations.
Find more information about the Commission and Canada’s role within ICCAT.
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.
Associated Links
- 30 -
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Frank Stanek
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
613-990-7537
Sophie Doucet
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
NR-HQ-14-44E
Follow us on Twitter!
