It’s a day of disruption at the seat of government in St. John’s.
Hundreds of fish harvesters descended on Confederation Building before sunrise, blocking both the east and west block.
Employees arriving for work are reporting that entrances are being blocked by the protesters, albeit with RNC officers on site.
Ronnie Bidgood of Petty Harbour is critical of government for allowing what he calls the “cartel” of companies run the fishing industry.
The budget is scheduled for 2:00, but Bidgood says they aren’t going anywhere and that there will be no budget today.
Warning: explicit language.
Workers are blocked from entering Confederation Building as they protest ahead of today’s scheduled budget. pic.twitter.com/WhpLkvhjKc
— VOCM News (@VOCMNEWS) March 20, 2024
It’s estimated up to 1,000 protesters have showed up to force changes in the fishery, including invites to outside buyers, more capacity for local plants, and more processing licences to spur increased competition.
It’s unclear just how the day will unfold regarding the budget and the work day at Confederation Building. VOCM News has calls into the Premier’s Office.
The RNC say public safety is paramount in such situations, and that officers will remain on the scene for as long as necessary. They have attempted to intervene in some situations, clashing with protesters.
There is an increased presence of officers in the area of Confederation Bldg. We respect the right to protest and are sensitive to the concerns of demonstrators. Please respect those that required to report to work today. Our priority remains the safety of all present. pic.twitter.com/K8oflUVyiv
— Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (@RNC_PoliceNL) March 20, 2024
LISTEN: Fish Harvester John Efford on Your VOCM Mornings
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Siobhan Coady is still scheduled to rise early this afternoon inside the House of Assembly to deliver the government’s financial blueprint for 2024-25.
The RNC issued an advisory early this morning for motorists to expect increased activity and delays in and around Confederation Building throughout the day.
Meanwhile, Premier Andrew Furey is stressing the work that has already been done to meet the harvesters’ demands.
Furey hopes that allowing outside buyers shows that government is working with harvesters and are listening to them, and that “significant progress” has been made.
He says all demands have been met in some shape or form. “Outside buyers—yes, increased capacity—yes, full review of foreign ownership and corporate concentration—yes.” Furey asks that harvesters continue to come to the table and work with them.