The FFAW is applauding the government’s decision to open up processing licenses for those who catch the fish.

Fisheries Minister Gerry Byrne is trying to reduce corporate concentration in the crab fishery by allowing groups of harvesters to get together, form a company, do a business plan, and apply for a processing license.

The union says the move fosters a more competitive and balanced snow crab industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

President Dwan Street calls it a game-changer in their industry and allows harvesters to take control of their own processing and marketing.

She says the move safeguards against further consolidation and promotes competition in a market with a handful of large corporate entities.

Minister Byrne says he may also open up other fisheries to harvester-controlled processing.