The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has selected the Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association as the first approved supplier for trap and net tags in Canada.
The PEIFA’s executive director Ian MacPherson made the announcement this morning.
As of December 31, 2012, DFO is no longer issuing trap and net tags for all species that are regulated by tags.
The decision has been criticized by P.E.I. Fisheries Minister Ron MacKinley who says Ottawa is simply downloading additional costs onto the province, local fishermen and their organizations.
Organizations and companies that meet the approved protocols will handle tag distribution and standards set by DFO.
The PEIFA will have tags available for fishers that harvest in LFAs 24, 25 and 26A.
A letter to all P.E.I. fishers will be sent out in the very near future detailing how harvesters can obtain their tags for the upcoming 2013 season.
The PEIFA is currently setting up operations to meet the demands of this change.
Tuna tags will continue to be issued by DFO, as it is an internationally regulated fishery.
Additional information and updates will be posted on the PEIFA web site at www.peifa.org or by calling the PEIFA office at (902) 566-4050.
