DFO acknowledges improvements can be made to the way stocks such as northern shrimp are assessed.

But they say they’re currently doing the best they can, with what they have to work with.

The most lucrative shrimp-fishing zone in our waters, off the north coast of the island, is still considered to be in critical condition. That’s based on scientific data and catch rates, leading to a so-called “precautionary approach,” or “PA,” when science is lacking.

That framework has been criticized by harvesters and the FFAW for being flawed and out of date.

DFO biologist Katherine Skanes delivered the latest assessment of northern shrimp stocks on Friday. She says DFO recognizes there is “unhappiness” with the current PA, but adds work is being done to improve the process.

Skanes noted all of the key players were in the loop and did sign off on the process this time around. But she also acknowledged that it’s the only process they currently have to work with.

The most recent stock assessment goes before stakeholders later this week, and then into the hands of the federal minister for decisions on future quotas.