Fisheries Minister Elvis Loveless has written the head of the FFAW to seek the union’s position of allowing outside buyers in the snow crab industry.
In a letter to President Greg Pretty, Loveless states that government is prepared to issue an expression of interest for outside buyers, but first they need input from the union.
Calls for “free enterprise” in the industry have been the main issue for fish harvesters protesting at Confederation Building over the last two weeks.
Loveless references Secretary Treasurer Jason Spingle being present at the rally yesterday, and is looking for confirmation that such a move would be supported by the FFAW, and that it wouldn’t have a negative impact on its members or plant workers.
He says the decision to allow outside buyers must consider impacts on all partners in the industry—particularly on plant workers.
Further, Loveless states that they are willing to look at all proposals to move the fishery forward, “provided that the impacts of such actions are well planned and understood.”
Loveless has requested that he receive a response from the union by the end of day today.
Today @FFA_GovNL Minister Elvis Loveless wrote @FFAW_Unifor President Greg Pretty seeking confirmation of the union s position regarding allowing outside buyers for the snow crab fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador this season. Please see copy of the letter below. #GovNL pic.twitter.com/5xugJZdaO7
— Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture NL (@FFA_GovNL) March 14, 2024