The province’s largest cod processor says it will be some time before they’re able to determine the full impact of a recent cut in cod quota off the province’s south coast.

Icewater Seafoods in Arnold’s Cove operates year-round employing over 200 people.

Owner Alberto Wareham says the cut means less work for his plant and less product for his customers. He will have to work with DFO and the FFAW to determine the best time of year to harvest that quota.

“Normally 3Ps is open from late May to early February when the quota is caught,” says Wareham. Just a few years ago the quota was 6,000 tonnes, and now it’s down to just over 1,000 tonnes, which means they have to consider the most economical way to catch that fish.

Wareham says it’s too early to say whether there will be any layoffs as a result.

“I’ll know more,” says Wareham, “in September and October.” That’s when the quota decision in 2J3KL will be out and that’s when they’ll be able to make some decisions.