The Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union says the Crab Committee today voted to recommend a further delay to the crab fishery until at least May due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Crab Committee chairs from around the province met today and voted to delay the crab fishery until at least May 11th, providing at least a 10-day notice period prior to any opening.
The announcement comes following a meeting with public health officials on Friday.
The FFAW says the Committee will also request that DFO extend the fishing season by one month this year.
Committee Votes to Postpone Crab Fishery Until At Least May 11th https://t.co/74GexqaWhf #nlpoli pic.twitter.com/RaZJOfMBlQ
— FFAW-Unifor (@FFAW_Unifor) April 19, 2020
The high level of anxiety and concern regarding safety was acknowledged during the meeting, says the FFAW.
Meanwhile, the Committee was in unanimous support for the recommendation that the provincial government prohibit all out-of-province and out-of-country vessels from landing any product in the province until fish harvesters and plant workers have deemed it safe to do so.
Discussions between the Crab Negotiating Committee and ASP regarding price and logistical challenges for the 2020 fishery are still ongoing and the FFAW says harvesters are not prepared to completely call off the crab fishery for the 2020 season.
A fishery will not take place until it can be done safely. If we get to a point where harvesters think a fishery can take place this year, we need to be prepared and are developing safety protocols and best practices for inshore vessels. https://t.co/80ijW7FVQp pic.twitter.com/zUA8YsCVlm
— FFAW-Unifor (@FFAW_Unifor) April 10, 2020