The fisheries union is fully expecting some cuts to the shrimp quota in some areas of the Gulf of St. Lawrence over the next couple of years. Science shows declining numbers, and the FFAW is asking Ottawa for a buyback program to allow harvesters who wish to do so exit that sector.

FFAW Secretary Treasurer Jason Spingle says the latest science also shows the largest fish biomass ever recorded in Atlantic Canada—redfish in the Gulf. Redfish are smaller, about half a pound, but Spingle says there will be a transition away from shrimp.

There are just over 30 boats from Newfoundland and Labrador in the shrimp fishery, so the ability to harvest and process redfish would not involve significant additional expense.

Spingle says the vessels are there, the plants are there and the workers are there.