DFO admits it was unable to complete its annual fall stock surveys.

The FFAW has already raised the alarm, indicating that the survey supplies data on Atlantic cod and snow crab, and could have an impact on the commercial fishing industry.

Division Manager of Aquatic Resources with DFO Science, Brian Healey, says they are busy now calibrating the Coast Guard’s new science vessels.

The John Cabot was formally dedicated in St. John’s Harbour in July following a lengthy delay. It will be used for multi-species surveys once ready.

Healey says the Cabot has been doing side-by-side work with the older research vessels.

He says that calibration is necessary anytime you switch vessels and with some of the mechanical challenges being experienced by the older vessels, they thought it was prudent to focus on the calibration work rather than trying to complete survey activity at the same time.