The former president of FISH-NL says he would be willing to head up a local fish harvesters association if that’s what harvesters want.

Ryan Cleary was approached by Port Saunders harvester Boyd Lavers, who says he’d like to see the formation of an association or co-op to help harvesters bring their concerns directly to DFO.

He says Cleary’s job would be to listen to what they have to say, bring those concerns to federal department officials and report back.

An association could also purchase equipment on behalf of harvesters, says Lavers.

Cleary tells VOCM News, he believes an association representing licensed harvesters could be a way forward but would only consider such a position if it’s clear that’s what harvesters want.