The NL Fisheries Minister says Ottawa has deemed the industry essential, and he expects most fisheries to open—albeit with some delay, depending on the species.

Gerry Byrne was in a virtual meeting with the federal minister and those from Quebec and the Maritimes on Friday.

He says Occupational Health and Safety will be overseeing “safe practices” in the industry.

There are measures that can be taken in fish plants, for example, to maintain separation among workers.

The FFAW has expressed concerns about safety, and Byrne agrees that must be the number one concern.

He suggests that in areas where you cannot maintain physical distancing, things like plexiglass can be used to create acceptable barriers.