2021 moderate livelihood fishing

For the 2021 fishing season, we are introducing a new, optional path for First Nations in the Maritimes and the Gaspé region to aid their members in fishing in pursuit of a moderate livelihood. This approach will help support individuals, their families, and their communities, and is flexible, adaptable, and based on three key principles:

recognition of First Nations’ treaty rights
conservation and sustainability of fish stocks
transparent and stable fisheries management

This year, we will be working with interested communities from the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet First Nations and the Peskotomuhkati to develop and implement moderate livelihood fishing plans. These fishing plans may be unique to each community and will be licensed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. They can also be long-term or yearly, and can be used ahead of reaching a Rights Reconciliation Agreement. This will enable First Nations to fish and sell their catch in pursuit of a moderate livelihood this season.

A key element of these fishing plans is that all moderate livelihood fishing activities will operate within the commercial season. Fishing seasons help ensure that fish species are harvested sustainably and maintain orderly, predictable, and well-managed fisheries. In Marshall II, the Supreme Court stated: “treaty rights are subject to regulation provided such regulation is shown by the Crown to be justified on conservation or other grounds of public importance.” That is what we are implementing.

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2021 moderate livelihood fishing

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