First Nations could have a bigger share of the lucrative elver fishery.
The federal government sent a letter to license holders this week, saying they’re considering upping the quota to 50 percent from 28.
It would be taken from current license holders without compensation.
Stanley King with the Canadian Committee for a Sustainable Eel Fishery says it’s devastating.
“It’s incredibly disappointing for license holders to receive this letter. We want more access for First Nations, but we know ways they can get it without expropriating quota from us,” said King.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans says the move would support First Nations fishing in pursuit of a moderate livelihood.
They’re also considering granting more commercial licenses.
King, who is also an elver fisher says it’s been ‘death by a thousand cuts.’
“It’s going to be crippling for us. People are going to lose their jobs, we’re not going to be able to operate in the community like we have previously. It’s very short-sighted by DFO, and it goes against Canadian values.”
The season was shut down in March for safety reasons.
Poaching has continued and several arrests have been made.
In a statement, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs says it’s clearly a Treaty communal right for increased participation, but there are many aspects in the DFO proposal that need to be explored.
DFO says they’re looking for feedback on the plan by July 15.
King says reconciliation is important, and the responsibility of all Canadians, but it’s ‘patently unfair’ to ask fishers to bear the cost alone.
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