The Association of Seafood Producers is echoing concerns initially raised by the FFAW surrounding oil exploration and the fishery.

ASP executive director, Derek Butler says although the oil and gas industry is important to the province he says the oil and fisheries industries need to be aware of activities that could compromise one another.

Butler says there is room for both industries in the province but he doesn’t want the fishery to disappear as the oil and gas sector expands.

He says better management and communication are needed so issues can be dealt with appropriately.

In a release the Association of Seafood Producers say they do not agree with the FFAW’s characterization of cartel-like behavior by processors in the fishery in 2019 surrounding cod, capelin and squid.

Butler says more consultation is needed with both the FFAW and ASP about when the fisheries start to ensure both sides of the industry are ready.