Feds commit to independent review of March arrest of Mi’kmaw fishers

A review of Department of Fisheries and Oceans practices after a pair of Mi’kmaw fishers were allegedly mistreated.

Fisheries minister Diane Leboutillier says the review will be independent and comprehensive.

It comes after an incident on March 26 where the two were arrested in Shelburne County for elver fishing.

They were released, and allegedly had their gear seized and were forced to walk for hours in freezing conditions.

Leboutillier says she heard testimony from one of the two involved in the incident, and met with Mi’kmaw chiefs to discuss the path forward.

Indigenous leaders will be involved in selecting the review panel, a report and recommendations will follow.

The minister says she’s committed to shedding light on the incident, and they must work to eradicate systemic racism.