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Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO)
Main Estimates 2024-2025

Table of contents

A  –  Opening Remarks

Good afternoon, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for inviting me to appear before this committee to discuss a number of important topics. Before doing so I want to recognize that we are gathering on the traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishnaabeg People.

Main Estimates

I want to begin by presenting the 2024-25 Main Estimates on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard. For the 2024-25 fiscal year, I’m seeking $4.7 billion in planned spending. This is an increase of $573.8 million compared to last year. However, this figure is offset by $254.2 million in spending decreases in other areas.

Three key initiatives that will receive funding include:

If you have any questions related to my Department’s 2024-25 Main Estimates, I’m happy to answer them following my remarks.

Opening of Redfish & Mackerel Fisheries

Mr. Chair, this past January I authorized the re-opening of a commercial Redfish fishery in Unit 1 following a moratorium that lasted nearly three decades. The first phase of this re-opened commercial fishery will last for two years.

I want to take this opportunity to update you on the current status of this work.

DFO held a productive series of meetings with the Redfish Advisory Committee in Halifax, Nova Scotia from March 4th to the 7th. Participants included representatives from DFO, Indigenous groups, industry stakeholders, provincial governments, and environmental non-governmental organizations.

A number of important topics related to the sustainable management of the fishery were discussed during the meetings, in addition to key issues that will impact the next steps with respect to the sub-allocation of Redfish.

The feedback from Advisory Committee members is currently helping inform the decision on the Unit 1 Redfish management plan for the 2024 season. This decision will be communicated as soon as possible ahead of the opening of the Redfish season.

The current plan is to have the fishery ready to open by June 15, after the annual Redfish spawning closure.

More recently, I announced the opening of a 470 tonne Atlantic mackerel personal-use bait fishery, which will be released in two equal parts. This will give harvesters from different regions equitable access to Atlantic mackerel as the stock migrates through our waters. At the same time, I announced the continued closure of the Atlantic mackerel commercial fishery in Atlantic Canada and Quebec for the 2024 season. 

With these two decisions, I’m trying to equip harvesters with the bait that they need for other fisheries without jeopardizing the ongoing rebuilding of this stock, which is vitally important to both the ocean’s ecosystem and to the region’s economic prosperity.

Budget 2024: Small Craft Harbours

Mr. Chair, Budget 2024: Fairness for Every Generation included some much welcomed news for Canada’s fish, seafood and processing sector. Our government is setting aside more than $463 million over the next three years to repair and maintain our national inventory of small craft harbours.

This investment will be used for a variety of infrastructure projects such as repairs, maintenance, construction, electrical and dredging. It will also help small craft harbours rebuild from extensive damage associated with extreme weather events such as Hurricane Fiona.

Ultimately, this investment of almost half a billion dollars will improve the safety of all harbour users; support the commercial fish, seafood and processing sector; generate economic spinoffs for local workers and businesses; and help coastal, rural and Indigenous communities thrive. 

For communities where seasonal work is significant and Employment Insurance plays an important role, Budget 2024 addresses income gaps. An estimated $263.5 million will extend a program that provides five additional weeks of insurance to eligible seasonal workers in 13 economic regions across Atlantic Canada and Quebec. First introduced in 2018, this program is being extended until October 2026.

Economic Outlook

Mr. Chair, over seven million Canadians live in coastal communities across the country and hundreds of thousands of people work in various parts of our blue economy. This includes fishing, aquaculture, marine transportation, shipbuilding, energy, tourism, recreation and more.

In 2022, over 75,000 people worked in the fishing, aquaculture and processing sectors across Canada. That same year, direct GDP contribution from the combined seafood industry was $5.1 billion. However, when taking all economic spin-off effects into account, the seafood industry contributed $8.9 billion to Canada’s GDP.

Budget 2024 contains a number of investments that will help support our blue economy. In addition to the financial support set aside for small craft harbours, the federal budget includes funding that will be shared among key departments, including Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard. For example:

Conclusion

Mr. Chair, I value the input that members of this committee provide on ocean-related matters and I appreciate the time and effort you put into studying and debating the issues that matter to so many Canadians.

Thank you.

B – Placemat

Main Estimates

The Main Estimates are used to seek Parliamentary authority for the upcoming year’s planned spending.

For fiscal year 2024-25, Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Main Estimates are presenting a total of $4.7 billion dollars in planned spending.

This amount represents an increase of $573.8 million compared to the 2023-24 Main Estimates.

The variance is attributed to changes to funding requirements for existing initiatives, such as the Canadian Coast Guard Fleet program; new funding for signed collective bargaining agreements; the sunsetting of funding such as recovery and resiliency efforts following Hurricane Fiona; and refocusing government spending.

Financial Issue Notes

Refocusing on Government Spending

Budget 2023 announced government spending reductions on travel and professional services, as well as a reduction of operating and transfer payment spending across all federal organizations to help achieve savings of $14.1 billion over five years.

As part of meeting this commitment, the Government approved the following spending reductions for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG):

The Department is committed to achieving these savings with limited impact on our services and employees, as well as ensuring that the reductions do not affect our Indigenous reconciliation activities and are not concentrated in the regions.

To achieve our overall savings target of $135.4 million, the Department will:

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Workforce Profile

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has received substantive incremental funding over the years to deliver on large scale and time-sensitive Government of Canada priorities and consequently, saw its workforce grow from 10,208 in March 2015 to 14,561 in March 2023, representing an increase of 42.6 per cent (or 4,353 employees). Included in this growth is an increase of 44.4 per cent of the Executive Cadre (from 198 to 286 executives) to provide the leadership required to deliver on new and/or expanded mandate commitments.

There are approximately 550 Conservation and Protection officers (fishery officers and supervisors).

Although the growth of the Department is slightly greater than that of the Federal Public Service [39.0 per cent growth within the Public Service and 42.6 per cent growth in DFO], the increase of DFO’s workforce and its Executive Cadre is proportionate to the level of new investment received, totaling a net increase of $2.466 billion of the Department’s reference levels between 2015 and today.

Support for Fish Harvesters

As our fisheries are facing a transition due to climate change and other factors, difficult decisions, such as reductions in quota and fishery closures, are required to protect the abundance of fish stocks under pressure.

Our Government is working hard to ensure that Canada’s fisheries remain sustainable and healthy, and we also recognize the importance of the fisheries to many coastal communities.

This is why we will continue to work with harvesters and provincial, municipal and community stakeholders to support the industry through this transition.

Atlantic Fisheries Fund

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting innovation and sustainability in Canada’s fish and seafood sector. That is why it is investing over $400 million through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, in partnership with the four Atlantic provincial governments.

Since 2017, 95 per cent of the Atlantic program funds have been contracted with over 1 237 approved projects valued at over 360 million.

Quebec Fisheries Fund

The Quebec Fisheries Fund is a contribution fund of over $40 million, over five years (2019 to 2024). The program is designed to support innovation and sustainability in the fish and seafood sector.

More than 60 per cent of the available contribution budget has been committed to 160 projects.

Interest in the Quebec Fisheries Fund program remains strong with more than 30 projects, seeking funding of over $6 million, under evaluation.

Procurement at DFO

What controls are in place to prevent a similar situation that happened with the ArriveCan application?

DFO has several controls in place to prevent a similar situation from arising such as:

DFO stringently follows all security related requirements on government related contracts.

QP Note on Budget 2024

Budget 2024 made substantial investments of over $1.2 billion to grow our ocean economy, create well-paying local jobs in Canadian fisheries, and advance reconciliaition.

The Government invested over $463 million to support the fisheries industry through maintenance of small craft harbours

We are continuing to ensure commercial vessels and recreational boaters can safely navigate our waters and to be there to save lives and protect our environment when emergencies arise by investing over $397 million in the Canadian Coast Guard for the effective operation of its future marine vessel fleet.

We are investing over $33 million to promote prioritize rebuilding of fish stocks and restoring habitats.

The Government is supporting hard working fishers by allowing exemptions at a higher amount of capital gains from taxation for their fishing property, and extending EI for seasonal workers.

Finally, we are meeting our commitments to Indigenous peoples to advance reconciliation by providing funding to conclude agreements between Canada and First Nations in British Columbia.

Canadian Coast Guard

Fleet Renewal

It is critical that the Canadian Coast Guard has the ships it needs to deliver essential marine navigation, search and rescue, and other safety services.

Significant progress has been made:

Wrecked, Abandoned and Hazardous Vessels

The Government of Canada is reducing the number of hazardous vessels in Canadian waters to minimize their impact on coastal communities, the environment and the public.

Budget 2023 announced the creation of an owner-financed Vessel Remediation Fund. This fund is expected to be operational by 2027 and provide sustainable funding to address and remove hazardous vessels.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Small Craft Harbours Abandoned and Wrecked Vessels Removal Program has grants and contributions funding of $2.17 million over nine years as part of the renewed Oceans Protection Plan starting in 2022.

Maritimes Search and Rescue

The Canadian Coast Guard is the federal lead for maritime search and rescue in Canada, and marine safety is our highest priority.

The Canadian Coast Guard serves the maritime community in Canada 24/7, along 243,000 kilometers of coastline; the longest coastline in the world. Every year, the Canadian Coast Guard responds to more than 6,000 calls for maritime assistance. On a typical day, the Canadian Coast Guard coordinates 18 search and rescue incidents, assists 47 people and saves 13 lives.

Thanks to the Oceans Protection Plan, the Canadian Coast Guard is continuing to increase maritime search and rescue capacity.

DFO Issue Notes

CESD Report – Marine Fisheries Catch

My Department is committed to responsibly managing Canada’s fisheries to promote healthy fish stocks and ecosystem productivity.

We are accelerating work on implementing the Fishery Monitoring Policy, modernizing fisheries information management systems, reviewing the third-party observer programs, and developing a roles and responsibilities framework for third-party monitoring programs.

Many actions are already underway to address the recommendations in the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development’s 2023 report, and others will be rolled out over the next five years to ensure my Department sustainably manages the harvesting of commercial marine fisheries for future generations.

North Atlantic Right Whale

I thank the Committee for their report and their thoughtful recommendations regarding the protection of right whales.

The Government continues to take concrete steps to ensure right whales are protected from fishing gear entanglements, including using adaptive fishing closure protocols, and to reduce vessel strikes.

Budget 2023 provided $151.9 million over three years to continue Canada’s efforts to protect endangered whales, including North Atlantic right whales.

Small Craft Harbours

Small craft harbours are one of my top priorities and are critical infrastructure for many coastal communities, supporting their economic prosperity.

That’s why our government announced $463.3 million over three years starting in 2024-25, for the repair and maintenance of small craft harbours, including those damaged by Hurricane Fiona.

Since 2016, our government has announced over $1.3 billion in new funding to support small craft harbours, where 90 per cent of landings by Canadian commercial fish harvesters are brought to shore.

This means harbour infrastructure, such as wharves and breakwaters, will be built using the latest climate-adapted standards and codes, increasing the overall resiliency of our harbours.

We take the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans very seriously.

The committee’s letter to the former DFO Minister, related to climate change and to the impacts of post-tropical storm Fiona, was far reaching, touching upon many areas within my department.

We are working diligently on finalizing our response to the committee, which I look forward to sending to my esteemed colleagues soon.

Science at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans

The Department conducts high quality science, in collaboration with partners, to inform decision-making for the benefit of Canadians.

Departmental scientists work with a range of partners and external experts in collecting data and conducting research to address important issues, like sustainable fisheries and the impacts of climate change on the marine environment.

The Department is committed to communicating the results of our research to Canadians to ensure that they are well informed about issues concerning the oceans.

Climate Change

Climate change is a critical issue for Canada’s oceans and freshwater resources; it poses serious risks to our aquatic ecosystems and fisheries that support economic activity in coastal communities.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada scientists are conducting research into the climate vulnerability of fisheries and aquatic ecosystems and are monitoring and modelling changing ocean conditions to project and respond to climate-related changes.

The Department will continue to collaborate with domestic and international partners to better understand the climate vulnerability of fish stocks and international partners to better understand the climate vulnerability of fish stocks and assist fisheries decision-makers and fish harvesters to adapt to climate-related changes.

The CCG is already seeing an increased demand for on-water incident response due to stronger and more frequent storms, shifting ice conditions, pressure on physical assets like buoys, and more demand for marine traffic services as vessels attempt to navigate through difficult conditions.

The CCG is implementing adaptation and mitigation actions to ensure ongoing delivery of critical services in an increasingly complex operating environment.

Permitting Process to Support Clean Growth

Under the Fisheries Act and the Species at Risk Act, the Department provides advice, and regulates works, undertakings, and activities occurring near water that could impact fish and fish habitat and aquatic species at risk.

In keeping with the Government’s commitment to grow the clean economy and meet net-zero commitments, Fisheries and Oceans Canada is improving the predictability and transparency of its regulatory framework to support the development of clean growth projects.

Food, Social and Ceremonial (FSC) Fisheries

My Department issues food, social, and ceremonial (FSC) fishing licences to Indigenous communities to implement the communal right to fish for food, social, and ceremonial purposes.

Food, social, and ceremonial fishing varies by community throughout the year, and is not always aligned with commercial seasons or areas.

Indigenous Moderate Livelihood Fishing

Our government is committed to advancing reconciliation, and renewing the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.

Through an array of collaborative arrangements and nation-to-nation agreements, my Department works with Treaty Nations to uphold treaty rights and protect fishery resources for the benefit of all.

DFO programs have enabled benefits to communities of over $170 million in annual landings and over $100 million in secondary economic benefits.

Our goal is to have fisheries that are peaceful, productive, and prosperous, that uphold the Marshall decisions, and ensure that Treaty Nations are able to exercise their rights in a way that is reflective of their visions and needs.

Reconciliation and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act

Fisheries, oceans, aquatic habitat and marine waterways are of great social, cultural, spiritual and economic importance for Indigenous Peoples Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard plays an important role to advance federal reconciliation efforts.

Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs)

DFO recognizes the importance of Indigenous-led conservation, including marine IPCAs, and is committed to working with Indigenous partners to advance shared conservation goals. 

Our preferred approach is to work with partners from an early stage as they develop their vision, exploring how conserved sites may be dually to reflect our shared commitment to protect the area.

DFO is committed to open dialogue and consultation with all parties and stakeholders when contemplating new conservation initiatives, including new marine IPCA partnership opportunities.

This ensures an inclusive approach is taken to the identification and consideration of all relevant interests and perspectives.

Although IPCAs are Indigenous-led, the declaration of an IPCA does not change DFO’s authority and role as the regulator of fisheries.

Internal Measures to Tackle Systemic Racism and in Support of Reconciliation

My Department is sustaining its efforts to move away from a relationship based on colonialism to one that recognizes and respects Indigenous rights and interests. More work remains to be done to address the systemic racism faced by Indigenous Peoples.

That said, my Department has taken a number of measures toward reconciliation and to combat systemic racism.

We are implementing deliberate strategies to increase the representation of Indigenous peoples at Fisheries and Oceans Canada and is promoting learning and awareness activities surrounding reconciliation.

Since 2015, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) onboarded over 280 fishery officer cadets who completed their initial training. Once they are deployed into their detachments, Indigenous awareness training continues with a regional focus.

We will continue our implementation of cultural change across the organization’s operations.

Transformation of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation

The Department is currently assessing the expressions of interest received from parties with an interest in future ownership and governance of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation.

A formal bid solicitation process is expected to follow later in the year.

We recognize the critical role the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation plays in Canada’s freshwater fisheries and are committed to ensuring its long-term success and further advancing economic reconciliation with Indigenous partners.

If pressed:

Regarding funding to help interested parties put together bids, we are aware that some parties are seeking support to prepare their bids. The expression of interest process and further engagement will help us to determine the extent of those requests and what support is possible.

Marine Conservation

Canada currently conserves 14.66 per cent of its ocean to support strong and vibrant coastal communities for future generations.

The Government of Canada has committed more than $1 billion to manage existing protected and conserved areas and to conserve 25 per cent of Canada’s ocean by 2025. Canada has also committed internationally and domestically to conserve 30 per cent by 2030. A further $800 million has been committed to support Indigenous-led conservation within Canada.

These historic investments will support the establishment and management of conservation areas through partnership and shared work with communities.

Task Group on Traceability and Labelling of Fish and Seafood Products

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO) 2022 report on “Traceability and Labelling of Fish and Seafood Products” recommended that “the Government of Canada establish an interdepartmental task force led by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and involving key agencies, supply chain participants and other stakeholders to develop a coordinated response to fish and seafood product mislabelling and to implement full boat-to-plate traceability for all fish and seafood products harvested, farmed or sold in Canada. This task force should also consider the creation of an oversight entity to enforce the effective implementation of the Canadian traceability and labelling system and to measure progress outcomes.”

The Government supported this recommendation and committed to creating an interdepartmental forum, led by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), to make progress on mislabeling and boat-to-plate traceability.

Current status

DFO is chairing an interdepartmental task group which also includes Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Agriculture and Agrifood Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency.

The group will advance long- and short-term actions to address mislabeling and traceability issues to support an orderly and well managed fishery and prevent overfishing. As part of this work, the group will reflect on feedback received from the Boat to Plate consultations, the recommendations made in the FOPO report and advice from subject matter experts.

Next Steps

The task group meets regularly and on an ongoing basis.

Fisheries Catch Data Collection – Electronic Logbooks

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is transitioning to digital tools to improve client services and to help inform timely fisheries management decision making.

The electronic logbook (ELOG) initiative enables fish harvesters to submit real-time catch data to the Department using DFO approved third-party applications.

This is not only critical for fisheries management decision-making, but also to respond to emerging challenges, such as adaptability due to climate change.

While some regions are further ahead than others, all have implementation plans in place to onboard more harvesters; including expansion of voluntarily use in 2024 in certain fisheries with a particular focus on the most lucrative fisheries, such as lobster and crab.

Ghost Gear

Ghost gear is a source of plastic pollution that has a devastating impact on our commercial species and marine ecosystems.

Since the establishment the Ghost Gear Program in 2019, Canada has become a leader in addressing ghost gear. We are one of the first countries in to have mandatory reporting of lost fishing gear through an app-based Fishing Gear Reporting System.

The Ghost Gear Fund has supported 144 projects totaling over $58 million, and the recent Zero Plastic Waste initiative audit identified the Ghost Gear Fund as successfully reducing marine plastic litter in Canadian waters. 

We will continue working with harvesters and experts to reduce ghost gear in the coming years, including through the development of a Ghost Gear Action Plan by 2027, which will modernize fisheries operations and regulations.

Genetic interactions on the east coast

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) uses the best available science to sustainably manage fisheries and aquaculture in collaboration with provinces and Indigenous communities.

On March 21, 2024, DFO published a peer reviewed Science Advisory Report on the risks of interbreeding between escaped farmed and wild Atlantic salmon on Canada’s East Coast.

Findings showed varying risk levels across the wild salmon populations examined, with increased risk for small and/or declining populations and those closer to aquaculture operations.

Foreign Owernership

The findings of the Beneficial Ownership Survey found that 2 per cent of survey respondents had some degree of foreign ownership within their corporate structure.

DFO has begun to engage key stakeholders on the results of the Survey. Future engagements are planned to reach a broader range of stakeholders, to identify additional means of examining foreign control, such as access leasing and concentration.

The Department is aware of the concerns expressed by the Committee in their recent report on foreign ownership and corporate concentration. A Government Response was tabled in the House of Commons on April 11, 2024.

Regional Notes

Elvers Fishery

The elver fishery in the Maritime Region has experienced a pattern of increasing and serious challenges, including conservation and safety concerns, leading to closures of the fishery during the season.

Since the closure in 2023, the Department is working with First Nations, commercial industry, and other stakeholders to chart a path forward. While progress has been made, there is still more work to do.

My Department continues to work on the changes necessary to provide a sustainable and orderly elver fishery for all harvesters. Until these measures are fully in place, I have decided not to issue licences in 2024 and, as such, to not open the elver fishery. 

Ongoing work related to regulating the possession and export of elver, changing how the fishery is managed, and addressing the distribution of access to Indigenous harvesters are key to promoting compliance in this fishery. These changes will also support deterrence and prosecution for non-compliance in the courts.

If pressed on elver arrests in Shelburne area March 26, 2024?

On March 26 a situation occurred in Shelburne County NS involving the arrest and release of two Mi’kmaw individuals. I am deeply troubled by allegations raised.

My colleague, the Parliamentary Secretary, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso, and I met with Mi’kmaq leaders on April 5.

We must work together to undertake a thorough review, which includes Indigenous voices, to shed light on this matter.

Shrimp and Redfish Fishery

The sharp decline in the abundance of northern shrimp in the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence is a cause for concern for the future of this commercial fishery.

The total allowable catach (TAC) for the four shrimp stocks is 3,060 tonnes.

The fishery opened as agreed on April 1, 2024. The first weeks of fishing confirmed the very low abundance of shrimp. Catch rates are very low and only a few vessels are in operation.

On January 26, 2024, I announced the re-opening of the commercial Redfish fishery in Unit 1 after a nearly 30 year moratorium, with a 10 per cent allocation going to Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence shrimp harvesters, to provide a new fishing and income opportunity to these harvesters.

Lobster Fishery

In 2023, the Department authorized an opening date for LFA 26A-1 on April 26 based on a consensus reached by fish harvesters from the Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association (PEIFA) and Gulf Nova Scotia (GNS) to avoid handling lobster during molting and spawning in late June.

Subsequently, the PEIFA submitted a proposal on behalf of their members in LFA 26A-1 to revert back to an April 30 opening day starting in 2024. The main concerns raised was financial loss incurred by some due to low catches early in the season and the need for more time for ice to dissipate and get ready for the season.

All associations and Indigenous groups that fish lobster in LFA 26A-1, were consulted on PEIFA’s proposal; only two were in support of the proposal. The key reason the majority did not support is for conservation reasons because lobster are more vulnerable in July.

After careful consideration, the department did not approve PEIFA’s proposal, opting for the status quo for the 2024 fishing season with an opening date of April 26, similar to the 2023 season, to allow more time to collect additional data as well as provide more flexibility should the season be delayed due to adverse weather. 

Capelin Fishery

Fisheries and Oceans Canada recognizes the significance of capelin to coastal communities while also recognizing the species as an important forage fish.

Taking this into consideration, the Department is working to finalize the 2024 management approach for capelin in areas off of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Tidal Energy

The Department is working with industry, federal, and provincial partners to advance the responsible development of marine renewable energy, including tidal energy.

This is why the Government established a Task Force on Sustainable Tidal Energy to explore issues and opportunities associated with the deployment of tidal energy projects in the Bay of Fundy.

The Task Force published a final report on February 28, 2024, which describes a number initiatives that can help advance the tidal energy sector, including a 15-year conditional Fisheries Act authorization.

This Task Force is facilitating greater collaboration between the federal government, the Province of Nova Scotia and members of the tidal industry.

Avon River Tidal Gate/Highway 101 Twinning

Since 2019, the Department has been working with the province of Nova Scotia on their Fisheries Act application to twin Highway 101, which includes replacing the existing tidal gate structure on the Avon River.

In January, the Department received information from the province on the project design to support regulatory requirements. The Department will continue the project review, and consultation with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia

Striped Bass

The striped bass population in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence has demonstrated a rebound since historic lows in the 1990s.

We have taken a responsive and incremental approach to increase First Nations access and recreational fishery opportunities for striped bass in the last number of years.

The recreational fishery for striped bass in the Gulf of St. Lawrence has the highest retention (possession of four striped bass per day) in eastern North America.

In 2017 the abundance of striped bass peaked and then suffered significant mortality.  In the past 6 years, the population has not returned to those levels.

Striped bass abundance continues to fluctuate and the population is still in the cautious zone of the Precautionary Approach Framework.

Establishment of the Arctic Region

In October 2018, the Government of Canada announced the creation of stand-alone Arctic Regions for Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard.

Extensive engagement with Inuit, First Nations, and Métis governments and organizations occurred to ensure that the region’s boundaries, programs, and services delivered reflect the needs and priorities of the communities.

This regional structure supports Canada and the Department's commitments to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples; cooperation with domestic and international partners; innovation with a northern focus; and a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

Through dedicated and ongoing planning capacity, the Department is delivering critical programs and services that are reflective of and responsive to the unique needs of Northern communities. Decision-making and policy implementation is undertaken by the North, for the North, and in the North.

As of April 2, 2024, leadership for all DFO and CCG programs in the Arctic Region rests with the DFO Arctic and CCG Arctic Regions.

Treaty Negotiations on the West Coast

The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous groups to explore new, flexible ways of working together to recognize Indigenous rights and self-determination using a variety of measures including negotiating reconciliation agreements and modern treaties as guided by the Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for treaty negotiations in British Columbia (which is signed by Canada, BC and First Nations Summit).

In BC, there are 8 concluded modern treaties containing fisheries chapters, and three concluded reconciliation agreements that contain fisheries provisions, including the Coastal First Nations Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement (2021), Tsilhqot’in Nation Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement (2019), and the Heiltsuk Hailcistut Increment House Post Agreement (2019). There is also the Burrard Inlet Environmental Science and Stewardship Agreement (2021), in partnership with the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, as well as several Oceans and Fisheries Reconciliation Framework Agreements (RFAs) involving nations in the North and Central Coast. Efforts are underway to meaningfully implement these agreements.

DFO continues to be actively involved in multiple treaty and reconciliation negotiations and working towards concluding negotiations in the coming year. The Department is working with Indigenous Peoples at approximately 40 discussion/negotiation tables (Treaty/RIRSD Agreement/Fisheries Reconciliation Agreement negotiations) across British Columbia to explore new ways of working together to advance the recognition of Indigenous rights and self-determination.

DFO is prioritizing closing negotiations on over 12 treaties and reconciliation agreements over the next few years by resolving key fish issues, including negotiations at Kitselas and Kitsumkalum, K’ómoks, Te’mexw Treaty Association tables, Lake Babine Nation and Gitanyow.

The opportunity to conclude negotiations at British Columbia treaty tables and securing comprehensive treaties through the British Columbia Treaty Process in the next few years would be a significant achievement and support better relationships between the Indigenous Peoples and the Government of Canada.

Northern (2J3Kl) Cod Stock Science

In March 2024, DFO held a peer review for Northern Cod to assess stock status. The meeting was attended by scientists and resource managers from DFO, academia, province of Newfoundland and Labrador representatives, industry and indigenous groups, and Non-governmental Organizations. Meeting conclusions were agreed upon by consensus during the stock assessment peer-review.

Results indicated the Northern Cod stock is out of the Critical Zone with the 2024 spawning stock biomass considered to be in the Cautious Zone. However, the stock has not shown growth since 2016, and short-term forecasts indicate growth is not expected over the next three years.

DFO has a robust science program on Northern cod which is supported by collaboration with the industry in some cases. Examples of science activities conducted include the fall multi species survey, sentinel surveys (industry), aging activities, and research on interactions between cod and capelin as well as between cod and seals.

The DFO survey was completed earlier than usual in the fall of 2023, as there were three CCG vessels working to complete surveys and also the comparative fishing program (the survey is typically completed using two vessels). Survey timing was discussed during the stock assessment, and it was agreed 2023 survey data was representative of stock size. Following the stock assessment, there has been some criticism of the survey timing and its impact on assessment results. While the early survey may slightly increase the uncertainty of the stock assessment, it is not likely to have considerable impact on 2024 stock size estimates.

Aquaculture – Open Net Pen Transition Plan

My Department continues to work with the Province of British Columbia and First Nations on developing a responsible plan to transition from open-net pen salmon farming in coastal British Columbia waters by 2025.

The vision of the Transition Plan as outlined in the Discussion Framework released in 2022 is to advance innovation and growth in sustainable aquaculture in British Columbia to progressively minimize or eliminate interactions between farmed and wild salmon, while also taking into account social, cultural, and economic objectives.

The transition is being undertaken in a manner that protects wild salmon, respects the rights and interests of Indigenous Peoples, and supports coastal communities and workers.

I am committed to the development of a responsible, realistic and achievable Transition Plan.

Opening of Mackerel Bait Fishing

The Atlantic mackerel bait fishery is intended to help licence holders supply their other fisheries with bait without jeopardizing the ongoing rebuilding of this stock.

The management plan for the 2024 Atlantic mackerel personal-use bait fishery is now being developed with the goal to implement an approach that provides harvesters with viable opportunities across multiple regions.

Management measures for the bait fishery and the opening date of the fishery will be communicated as soon as possible through a Notice to Fishers.

Judicial Review FNC

I have received the Federal Court’s decision of the Minister’s 2021 decision to approve the transfer of commercial fishing licences in waters adjacent to Nunavut.

The licences transferred were from Clearwater Seafoods to First Nation Coalition Quota Limited Partnership, which is owned by a coalition of Mi’kmaq First Nations.

The judicial review was launched by the Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association.

Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative

Pacific salmon populations are in serious decline due to climate change impacts, pollutants, changes in land and water use, and illegal harvesting.

To meet these challenges, the Government has invested $686 million over five years to implement decisive steps under the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative.

Targeted actions to date include the launch of the Pacific Salmon Commercial Licence Retirement Program and extension to the BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund.

Opening of Mackerel Bait Fishing

The Atlantic mackerel bait fishery is intended to help licence holders supply their other fisheries with bait without jeopardizing the ongoing rebuilding of this stock.

The management plan for the 2024 Atlantic mackerel personal-use bait fishery is now being developed with the goal to implement an approach that provides harvesters with viable opportunities across multiple regions.

Management measures for the bait fishery and the opening date of the fishery will be communicated as soon as possible through a Notice to Fishers.

Judicial Review FNC

I have received the Federal Court’s decision of the Minister’s 2021 decision to approve the transfer of commercial fishing licences in waters adjacent to Nunavut.

The licences transferred were from Clearwater Seafoods to First Nation Coalition Quota Limited Partnership, which is owned by a coalition of Mi’kmaq First Nations.

The judicial review was launched by the Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association.

Annex – Additional information

Fisheries Act Review

The Fisheries Act is one of Canada's oldest pieces of federal legislation dating back to the Confederation. It received Royal Assent in 1868 and became an essential legislative tool in the government's ability to sustainably manage fisheries and protect the habitat that supports them.

Over the years, the Act has been amended in order to keep up with modern realities, including the most recent amendments from 2019. The new provisions and the stronger protections of the modernized Act aim to better support the sustainability of Canada’s marine resources for future generations.

With the help of our many partners and stakeholders, the Department is continuing to implement the changes brought forward through the 2019 modernized Act. These changes have contributed to guiding my responsibility as Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.

I know that the committee has adopted a motion to conduct a review of the Fisheries Act and I look forward to these outcomes, including the insights and experiences from Indigenous communities and organizations, stakeholders, and provinces and territories.

This examination of the Act will inform directions on how we can continue to advance efforts to protect and sustain Canada's fisheries, maintain vibrant coastal communities, continue to advance reconciliation, and promote the long-term health of our aquatic ecosystems.

Annual report: administration of sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the Fisheries Act

Pursuant to Article 4.3 of the Fisheries Act, the Minister shall, as soon as feasible after the end of each fiscal year, prepare and cause to be laid before each house of Parliament a report on the administration of sections 4.1 and 4.2 in that fiscal year.

Therefore, as soon as feasible after the end of 2023-2024 fiscal year, the Department will table an annual report on the administration of sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the Fisheries Act, including the five Rights Reconciliation Agreements concluded this fiscal year with First Nations in Atlantic Canada and Quebec.

In addition, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard will send letters to the Clerk of the House of Commons and the interim Clerk of the Senate to present, in both official languages, the 2023-24 Annual Report: Administration of Sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the Fisheries Act.

Aquatic Invasive Species QP Note

Our government understands the importance of protecting Canadian waters and is focused on coordinating efforts to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Aquatic invasive species pose a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems, and preventing negative impacts to Canada’s biodiversity, economy, and society is a priority for this Government.

My department works with provinces, territories, Parks Canada, and the Canada Border Services Agency to enforce the Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations, including a focus on preventing prohibited species from entering Canada.

Scientific Processes and Excellence at Fisheries and Oceans Canada (QP Note)

DFO does not comment on matters related to personnel, however we take any instance where allegations of misconduct are received seriously. This includes our full cooperation when requests are received from the Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner of Canada.

If pressed on recent allegations

As a science-based department, scientific integrity is at the very foundation of the work of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and its employees. It guides our science processes, shapes how we work with others and how we generate science advice to best inform decision making for the benefit of Canadians.

My Department continues to take concrete steps to ensure transparent, impartial, and evidence-based peer review and scientific advice.

We take any instance where allegations of misconduct are received seriously, including from outside parties. However, it would be inappropriate to comment on individual cases.

C – Main Estimates 2024-2025

C1 - Briefing Deck

Introduction

2024-25 Main Estimates

Table: 2024-25 Main Estimates
2024-25 Main Estimates
($ millions)
2023-24 Main Estimates 2023-24 Estimates to Date 2024-25 Main Estimates Increase/Decrease

Operating Vote 1

2,011.0

2,158.2

2,175.8

164.9

Salary

1,171.9

1,237.5

1,325.0

153.1

O&M

879.1

960.7

890.9

11.8

VNR

(40.0)

(40.0)

(40.0)

0.0

Capital Vote 5

1,381.6

1,431.5

1,826.8

445.1

Capital Salary

53.4

55.9

57.0

3.6

Capital

1,328.2

1,375.6

1,769.7

441.6

Grants and contributions Vote 10

532.4

775.6

491.8

(40.6)

Grants

11.1

64.1

5.9

(5.2)

Contributions

521.3

711.5

485.8

(35.4)

Statutory

186.3

204.7

190.8

4.5

Contributions to employee benefit plans

186.2

204.6

190.7

4.5

Minister of Fisheries and Oceans - Salary and motor car allowance

0.1

0.1

0.1

0.0

Total Main Estimates

4,111.4

4,570.0

4,685.2

573.8

Note: Totals may not add due to rounding.

Main Estimates are approved at the vote level.

Allotment information for the 2023-24 Main Estimates / Estimates to Date and the 2024-25 Main Estimates are presented for information only.

Key Changes Between 2023-24 and 2024-25 Main Estimates

Fisheries and Oceans’ 2024-25 Main Estimates total $4,685.2 million, which is $573.8 million more than the 2023-24 Main Estimates ($4,111.4 million).

Table: Key Changes Between 2023-24 and 2024-25 Main Estimates

Key increases included in the 2024-25 Main Estimates ($828.0 million)

Planned funding profile change for Canadian Coast Guard's fleet projects - $506.0 million

Planned funding profile change for signed collective bargaining agreements - $127.7 million

Planned funding profile change to modernize the Fisheries Act - $52.7 million

Planned funding profile change for species at risk - $27.5 million

Planned funding profile change for federal contaminated sites - $21.2 million

Planned funding profile change to protect and promote the health of Canada’s priority at-risk whale populations - $17.9 million

New funding for Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy - $17.6 million

Various other initiatives - $57.4 million

Key decreases included in the 2024-25 Main Estimates ($254.2 million)

Sunsetting funding for the Small Craft Harbour Program and the Ghost Gear Fund for recovery efforts at harbours affected by Hurricane Fiona - $89.8 million

Refocusing government spending - $83.5 million

Planned funding profile change to strengthen environmental protections and address concerns raised by Indigenous groups regarding the trans mountain expansion project - $26.0 million

EBP adjustment by TBS to reflect projected expenditures - $25.7 million

Planned funding profile change for the Fish Funds - $23.4 million

Various other initiatives - $5.8 million

Note: All increases/decreases exclude accommodations and SSC costs.

Next Steps

Annex A: 2024-25 Main Estimates by Core Responsibility

Table: Annex A: 2024-25 Main Estimates by Core Responsibility($ millions)
Core Responsibility Program Inventory for Internal Services Amount

Marine Operations and Response

N/A

2,182.4

Fisheries

N/A

1,038.7

Aquatic Ecosystems

N/A

458.1

Marine Navigation

N/A

376.8

Internal Services

Real Property

298.2

-

Management and Oversight

101.2

-

Financial Management

41.1

-

Information Technology

79.8

-

Human Resources Management

45.5

-

Legal Services

19.5

-

Communications

20.2

-

Information Management

14.0

-

Acquisitions and Materiel

9.7

Internal Services Total

-

629.2

Total

-

4,685.2

Annex B: 2024-25 Main Estimates by Standard Object

Table: Annex B: 2024-2 Main Estimates by Standard Object ($ millions)
Budgetary Authorities Amount

Personnel

1,572.8

Transportation and Communications

89.4

Information

6.5

Professional and special services *

1,082.0

Rentals

64.1

Purchased repair and maintenance

186.7

Utilities, materials and supplies

150.1

Acquisition of land, buildings and works

310.5

Acquisition of machinery and equipment

740.4

Transfer Payments

491.8

Other subsidies and payments

30.9

Total Gross Budgetary Authorities

4,725.2

Revenues netted against expenditures

(40.0)

Net Budgetary Authorities

4,685.2

The standard object breakdown, excluding personnel and transfer payments, is calculated using historical spending.

Personnel includes Vote 1 ($1,325.0 million), Vote 5 Personnel ($57.0 million) and Statutory ($190.8 million for EBP and the Minister’s salary and car allowance).

* The Refocusing Government Spending exercise has identified reductions to external consultation and contractual work as well as discretionary program spending that can be eliminated. Professional and special services appear significant however, they are primarily related to Engineering and Architectural Services, which are used to support investments in Fleet Renewal and Infrastructure investments. These are mostly non-discretionary and are required to deliver assets that meet mandated policy objectives.

Annex C: 2024-25 Main Estimates Transfer Payment Programs

Table: Annex C: 2024-25 Main Estimates Transfer Payment Programs ($ millions)
Grants Amount

Grants in Support of Aquatic Species and Aquatic Habitat

2.6

Grants in support of Salmon Enhancement Programming

1.6

Grants in Support of Asset Disposal Programming

0.8

Grants in Support of Indigenous Reconciliation Priorities

0.7

Grants in Support of Organizations Associated with Research, Development Management and Promotion of Fisheries and Oceans-related Issues

0.3

Total Grants

5.9

Contributions Amount

Contributions in Support of Aquatic Species and Aquatic Habitat

124.7

Contributions in Support of the Integrated Indigenous Programs Management Framework

119.3

Contributions in Support of the Integrated Fish and Seafood Sector Management Framework

82.9

Contributions in Support of Indigenous Reconciliation Priorities

65.8

Contributions in Support of the Canadian Coast Guard Integrated Program

31.8

Contributions in Support of Ecosystems and Oceans Science

28.1

Contributions in Support of the Sustainable Management of Canada’s Fisheries

22.9

Contributions in Support of Salmon Enhancement Programming

7.5

Contribution in Support of the Pacific Salmon Foundation

1.6

Contributions in Support of the Small Craft Harbours Class Program

0.8

Contribution in Support of the Salmon Sub-Committee of the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board

0.3

Contributions in Support of Organizations Associated with Research, Development, Management and Promotion of Fisheries and Oceans-related Issues

0.1

Contribution in Support of the T. Buck Suzuki Environmental Foundation

0.0

Total Contributions

485.8

Total Transfer Payments

491.8

Note: Totals may not add due to rounding.

Annex D: Refocusing Government Spending

In Budget 2023, the government committed to reducing spending by $14.1 billion over the next five years, starting in 2023–24, and by $4.1 billion annually after that.

As part of meeting this commitment, the Department is planning the following spending reductions.

Table: Annex D: Refocusing Government Spending
Source 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 and after

Reference level

83,518,224

102,768,211

126,973,761

117,581,324

117,581,324

92,581,324

Fiscal Framework

1,894,526

2,397,039

8,397,039

17,789,476

17,789,476

42,789,476

Total

85,412,750

105,165,250

135,370,800

135,370,800

135,370,800

135,370,800

DFO will achieve these reductions by doing the following:

C2 - Main Estimates Issue Note

Background

Additional context for the largest items:

C3 - Summary Table Main Estimates

Key Increases

Represents large, planned increases to yearly funding profile, in comparison to the 2023-24 Main Estimates
Name of the Initiative Description & Expected Results Funding

Multi-Purpose Vessel Project *

  • This additional funding and amended expenditure authority will allow for construction engineering and the procurement of long-lead items material for the Multi-Purpose Vessel project at Vancouver Shipyards.
  • Examples of planned activities include the selection of specific pieces of equipment, such as engines, azimuth thrusters, cranes and winches, generating the manufacturing information and assembly plans needed to: cut steel into the parts to be assembled into the hull and superstructure; make items of outfit such as pipe and cable runs; make the structural support needed for equipment such as the engines; and create the build sequence to allow the efficient assembly of the ship.

New funding:

2024-25: $124.2 M

[Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.]

Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel Project *

  • The Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel (OOSV) project received amended project approval and amended expenditure authority to address the construction cost estimate increase following the Target Cost Reset process with Vancouver Shipyard (VSY).
  • Funding will be used to complete the construction of one Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel, including outfitting, trialing and delivery to Canada, warranty, shipbuilder insurance premiums and integrated logistic support set-up, such as initial onboard and shore-based spares, maintenance material and training.

New funding:

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $8.6 M

2024-25: $102.6 M

[Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.]

Future fleet of the Canadian Coast Guard *

  • The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) provides operational support for a broad scope of economic, social, and environmental programs and underpins public safety and security in the maritime domain, particularly in the Arctic where Coast Guard fleet is often the sole federal presence. These initiatives support the larger future fleet, allowing Coast Guard to be better positioned to efficiently enter new vessels into operation, and mitigating the risk of delays.
  • Funding will be used to grow and develop the Canadian Coast Guard workforce needed to operate and support new vessels, prepare the infrastructure required to accommodate them and position CCG to operate new assets that will be more technologically complex.

New funding:

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $41.1 M

2024-25: $51.2 M

2025-26: $17.0 M

2026-27: $2.2 M

2027-28: $2.2 M

Replacement of a Canadian Coast Guard Light-Lift Helicopter *

  • Funding will be used for the acquisition of one Bell 429 light-lift helicopter for the Canadian Coast Guard to replace one involved in an accident in 2022. The purchase of a single aircraft aims to return the Coast Guard’s fleet to 16 light-lift helicopters and re-establishing its operational capability.

New funding:

2024-25: $14.5 M

Other Canadian Coast Guard fleet projects *

  • The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) has a statutory mandate to deliver eight missions: icebreaking, search and rescue, environmental response, ocean science, shipping channel maintenance, aids to navigation, marine communications and traffic services, and support to on-water missions of other Government departments.
  • Some examples of fleet projects are: Multi-purpose vessels, Icebreakers, Offshore fisheries science vessels, Offshore oceanographic science vessel, and Vessel life extensions/mid-life modernizations.

2024-25 planned increase: $37.4 M

Signed collective bargaining agreements    

  • $127.7 million in funding was received for the CS, CT, EB, EC, EL, EX, PA, HM, SV, RO, TC and SP groups.

New funding:

2024-25: $127.7 M 2025-26: $136.5 M

Ongoing: $138.5 M

Modernizing the Fisheries Act

  • The overall goal of the initiative is to support the implementation of the Fish Stocks provisions of the Fisheries Act. These include new obligations to maintain fish stocks at sustainable levels and rebuild depleted stocks.
  • The funding is being used to support at-sea science surveys, data collection, and laboratory analysis of samples.

2024-25 planned increase: $52.7 M Includes $68.0 M in new funding offset by planned decreases of existing funding.

Species at risk

  • The $27.5 million in new funding will be used for:
  • Fulfilling legislated requirements in the Species at Risk Act (SARA), including processes for assessing whether species should be listed under SARA through species, habitat, and socio-economic analyses, consultations, and the creation of regulatory packages for Governor in Council consideration.
  • Maintaining DFO’s existing capacity with respect to species and habitat protection and recovery action support evidence-based decision making.
  • Transitioning to multi-species and ecosystem approaches to enable more innovative, effective and efficient ways of protecting and implementing recovery actions.

New funding:

2024-25: $27.5 M 2025-26: $27.5 M

New funding supplements existing funding

Federal contaminated sites           

  • The Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan has allowed federal custodians to systematically assess risks on federal lands and take remediation action on a priority basis. Assessment activities funded by Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan has led to a recorded environmental liability to remediate sites.
  • The goal of the initiative is to continue to reduce risks to human health and the environment and environmental liability at federal contaminated sites.

2024-25 planned increase: $21.2 M

Protecting and promoting the health of Canada’s priority at-risk whale populations

  • This funding is a renewal of previous activities, which focused on protecting the North Atlantic right whale (NARW), Southern Resident killer whale (SRKW), and St. Lawrence Estuary Beluga (SLEB), their prey and ecosystems. The proposed activities under this initiative seek to renew science and technology investments and to renew whale programming, including the coordination, implementation, and enforcement of management interventions to ensure evidence-based decision-making.

New funding:

2024-25: $23.9 M

2025-26: $23.0 M

Offsets $6.0 M in 2023-24 sunsetting funding

Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy

  • Through the Shared Ocean Fund, Canada is combatting illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • This funding allows Canada to achieve the commitment made under its Indo-Pacific Strategy on combatting and deterring illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and reinforcing a healthy marine environment in the Indo-Pacific region through governance, enforcement, and partnerships.

New funding:

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $13.3 M

2024-25 to 2027-28: $17.6 M annually

Canadian Coast Guard helicopter fleet

  • This funding addresses an annual operational deficit that has emerged in recent years. This deficit is a result of rising costs, such as inflation and increasing fuel and repair costs, causing unforeseen operational shortfalls for the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG)’s helicopter services and their ability to sustain air assets and to support operations.
  • Funds will be used to make regular interdepartmental settlement payments to Transport Canada (TC) for costs incurred in support of Coast Guard Helicopter services to maintain baseline air support for the light and medium-lift helicopter aircraft.

New funding:

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $11.6 M

2024-25: $12.8 M

[Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.]

Key Decreases

Represents large, planned decreases to yearly funding profiles, in comparison to the 2023-24 Main Estimates
Name of the Initiative Description & Expected Results Funding

Small Craft Harbour Program and the Ghost Gear Fund for recovery efforts at harbours affected by Hurricane Fiona

  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada sought $100M over two years, beginning in 2022-23, to supplement the Small Craft Harbour Program to support recovery efforts at Small Craft Harbours damaged by Hurricane Fiona.
  • The funding was used for clean-up, damage assessments, dredging, minor repairs, and minor capital projects to address the impacts that have been confirmed at harbours throughout the affected Small Craft Harbour (SCH) regions.
  • [Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.] The long-term result being the reduction of fisheries related marine litter, more specifically ghost gear, from the marine environment in parts of Atlantic Canada affected by Hurricane Fiona.

2024-25 sunsetting: $89.8 M

Refocusing government spending

  • The government is committed to finding savings in operating and transfer payment programs, and across professional services and travel spending, so they can be re-invested in priority areas for Canadians, including health care and a clean economy.
  • The Department reviewed its existing programs and operations and explored different approaches to streamlining or scaling back activities (e.g., professional services and travel) to provide better value for money.

Reference Level Reductions:

2023-24: $25.7 M

2024-25: $83.5 M

2025-26: $127.0 M

2026-27: $117.6 M

2027-28: $117.6 M

Ongoing: $92.6

Trans mountain expansion (TMX) project

  • The funding is being used to facilitate the implementation of accommodation measures for the benefit of Indigenous communities and to support regulatory decision making.
  • This is strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and delivering on regulatory review responsibilities to support the implementation of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project.

2024-25 planned decrease: $26.0 M

Includes the Aquatic Habitat Restoration Fund and TMX reprofiles

Fish Funds

  • The Atlantic Fisheries Fund addresses two core objectives: 
    • supporting the fish and seafood sector in Atlantic Canada as it transitions through significant challenges facing the region; and
    • supporting the sector across the country to improve its productivity and competitiveness as it looks to capitalize on opportunities presented by recent and upcoming Free Trade Agreements.
  • The Quebec Fisheries Fund and British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund address three core objectives:
    • Increase productivity, competitiveness, quality, and sustainability in the fish and seafood sector; including support for BC’s iconic Pacific salmon species;
    • Enhance capacity to adapt to and address ecosystem shifts and their impacts on the fish and seafood sector, including shifts related to climate change; including support for BC’s iconic Pacific salmon species; and
    • Increase recognition of Canadian fish and seafood products as market-leading in terms of quality and sustainability.

2024-25 planned decrease: $23.4M

New Funding

Represents other planned influx of funding with a lower dollar value than the key increases
Name of the Initiative Description & Expected Results Funding

Fishery Monitoring Policy

  • This funding supports the implementation of a policy-based approach to improve on existing fishery monitoring by focusing funding on implementing measures to monitor fish stocks and manage fisheries in a sustainable manner under DFO’s mandate as set out in the Fisheries Act and Fishery (General) Regulations. This approach is guided by the Department’s 2019 Fishery Monitoring Policy.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $6.2 M 2024-25: $6.0 M

2025-26: $6.3 M

2026-27: $6.1 M

2027-28: $5.3 M

Ongoing: $4.9 M

National security and intelligence review requirements

  • With the establishment of the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) in 2017, and the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) in 2019, federal departments and agencies who undertake national security or intelligence activities must now- respond to comprehensive external review requirements. To do so, they have set up (or are expanding) liaison units to respond to NSICOP’s and NSIRA’s information requests, including the provision of documents, written responses to questions, and briefings.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $0.7 M 2024-25: $0.7 M

Transfers

Represents a transfer of resources between two or more federal departments to meet Government of Canada objectives
Name of the Initiative Description & Expected Results Funding

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in federal government operations (TBS to DFO)

  • In the first year the funding is being used to conduct a study that will explore and evaluate the Power, Energy and Control (PE&C) technology landscape – current available technology and emergent renewable and hybrid technologies.
  • In the second year a site will be selected in partnership with the Western Region Integrated Technical Services organization to launch a pilot program that will evaluate potential field deployable PE&C systems and their effectiveness compared against the existing operations over a specified period of time.
  • In the third year the pilot program will be concluded. An impact assessment will be prepared, an inventory of Canadian Coast Guard remote site power systems produced and an outline of requirements for future greener efforts for remote sites created.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $0.5 M 2024-25: $1.5 M

2025-26: $0.9 M

Great Lakes Action Plan VIII (Environment to DFO)

  • The funding will be used for scientific assessments of the progress of restoration efforts in Great Lakes Areas of Concern. Science staff with the Great Lakes Laboratory for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Ontario & Prairie Region, Science Sector, will carry out monitoring, research, and analyses to provide science advice about the status of impaired fish communities, fish habitat, and lower trophic levels in degraded areas of concern in the Great Lakes.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): $1.2 M 2024-25: $1.2 M

2025-26: $1.2 M

Genomics R&D Initiative shared priority projects (National Research Council to DFO)

  • This funding is to support DFO commitments to two shared priority projects under the Genomics Research and Development Initiative (GRDI) on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Genomics for Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change (GenARCC) as per Project Management Plans, Science Plans and Budgets approved by the GRDI ADM Coordinating Committee.

2024-25: $0.4 M

Financial Community Developmental programs and initiatives (various Departments to TBS)

  • This funding will provide the Financial Management Community Development (FMCD) team, within the Office of the Controller General (OCG), the critical resources to continue and strengthen programming and community support at a central level.
  • The OCG will play an enhanced leadership role in a fast-paced and changing landscape, ensuring the community possesses the relevant skillsets to adapt and thrive through their programming and community support.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): ($10 K) 2024-25 to 2028-29: ($37.4 K) annually

OCG Policy on Transfer Payments Innovation Agenda (various Departments to TBS)

  • Based on consultations, in order for the Office of the Controller General - Financial Management Services (FMS) to successfully deliver an Innovation Agenda, the Transfer Payment Policy Centre will need to build upon its existing capacity which currently leads the development of guidance, advice and interpretation of the Policy to departments and agencies, including related policy instruments and guidance documents, and which provides policy guidance, interpretation and advice for MCs and TB Submissions through liaison with Program Sector analysts in their advice to departments.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): ($15 K) 2024-25 to 2028-29: ($50 K) annually

Integrated Terrorism Assessment Centre (DFO to CSIS)

  • This funding renews the 2017 Memorandum of Understanding. Funding for the previous five years was used to hire secondees to ensure the continued production of intelligence assessments for Government of Canada.

2023-24 (through Supplementary Estimates): ($64.8 K) Ongoing: ($55.3 K)

Policy on the Planning and Management of Investments (various Departments to TBS)

  • This funding will be used by TBS for the definition and implementation of OPMCA/PCRA Renewal Initiative IT application modernization project, transitional operations and maintenance of the new application as well as the conduct of broader organizational change management activities for the renewal initiative.

2024-25: ($133.3 K)

2025-26: ($11.1 K)

2026-27: ($11.1 K)

2027-28: ($11.1 K)

Greening Government Fund (various Departments to TBS)

  • Departments and agencies that generate greenhouse gas emissions in excess of 1 kilotonne per year from air travel are required to contribute annually to the Greening Government Fund. [Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.] The amount due for this cycle is based on the 2026/27 carbon price, $110 per tonne, which is the year the funds will be transferred.

2026-27: ($0.3 M)

Reprofiles

Represents the movement of funds between fiscal years that are affecting the 2024-25 Main Estimates
Name of the Initiative Description & Expected Results Funding

Aquatic Habitat Restoration Fund

  • The Trans Mountain Expansion (TMX) project runs from Edmonton, Alberta, to the Westridge Marine Terminal and the Chevron refinery in Burnaby, British Columbia. It will twin an existing oil pipeline that was built in 1953.
  • As a result of the dialogue that took place during Phase III consultations, the Government developed accommodation measures to address the concerns of potentially impacted Indigenous groups.
  • The Aquatic Habitat Restoration Fund provides funding and capacity support for projects related to habitat restoration to address direct and indirect threats posed by the Project on aquatic habitats and species.

2024-25: $14.0 M

Salish Sea Initiative

  • [Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.]
  • This funding will enable 33 Indigenous communities along the TMX marine shipping corridor to increase their technical and scientific capacity in the area of cumulative effects monitoring and reporting.

2024-25: $10.1 M

Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Terrestrial Cumulative Effects Initiative (TCEI)

  •  Provides funding to Indigenous groups to support engagement and capacity building as well as specific cumulative effects research or data collection projects.

Co-Developing Community Response (CDCR)

  • Part of the accommodation measures put forward as part of the Governor-in-Council’s approval of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMX). CDCR was developed in response to concerns raised by Indigenous communities during Phase III consultations related to the risks posed by project-related shipping, as well as a desire for a clearer role for Indigenous communities during an incident on the water.

TCEI

2024-25: $2.0M

CDCR

2024-25: $10.3

Polar icebreaker *

  • The Coast Guard’s Fleet Renewal Plan includes the requirement for two Polar Icebreakers to ensure a continuous and self-reliant Canadian presence in the Arctic. The Polar Icebreakers will be first in their class for Coast Guard.
  • The plan is for the Polar Icebreakers to be annually dedicated to program and service delivery in the Arctic over an extended nine-month operational season and then in scheduled maintenance for the remaining three months.

2024-25: $75.0 M

2025-26: $25.0 M

Vessel Life Extension 2020 *

  • [Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.] VLE work on CCG vessels is critical to maintain fleet reliability and programming until new vessels come into service.
  • Although CCG is working to replace much of the existing fleet, procurement timelines have been slower than anticipated. The result has been that CCG must plan to extend the operating life of many vessels in the fleet. CCG has proposed that the 2020 VLE program will deliver at least 75 VLEs over the period between 2020 and 2040.

2024-25: $57.2 M

2025-26: $3.8 M

2026-27: $4.0 M

Light Icebreaker *

  • These funds are required to support the conversion/modification of an existing icebreaker. The light icebreaker will enable the delivery of Coast Guard services (icebreaking, aids to navigation and search and rescue) in 2022-23 and for up to fifteen additional years into the future.
  • The Light Icebreaker will serve as a backfill to legacy CCG vessels whilst they undergo their vessel life extensions. The estimated work completion is in October 2024.   

2024-25: $44.0 M

Reconciliation on Indigenous rights and fisheries issues

  • Reconciliation and our relationship with First Nations have been priorities of the Government and the department has received a significant amount of new funding over the past few years. The program is making every effort to advance this agenda and improve relationships with First Nations.
  • The challenge is that agreements are all negotiated. From month to month the status and likelihood of reaching an agreement can vary significantly and take much longer than originally anticipated. There are also unforeseen legal implications along the way.

2024-25: $43.6 M

2025-26: $29.7 M

Environmental Response Science initiative

  • [Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.]
  • This initiative supports research and develop advice and tools to advance environmental response efforts in Canada. Specifically, this funding helps support field trials which were delayed in OPP Phase-1 due to regulatory and COVID-19-related restrictions. The OPP Phase-2 funded field trials are scientifically and operationally important to validate and improve upon results from OPP Phase-1 Multi Partner Research Initiative in a real-world setting.

2024-25: $1.4 M

2025-26: $3.4 M

2026-27: ($0.9 M)

Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative

  • This funding is related to the BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund (BCSRIF) through the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI).
  • BCSRIF investments support both program-specific objectives and broader departmental priorities outlined in the Minister's mandate letter. As part of the Fish and Seafood Sector Program and a key element under the PSSI, BCSRIF invests in projects that will modernize the regional fish and seafood sector, with a focus on activities that support the restoration of wild Pacific salmon.

2024-25: $1.1 M

2025-26: $8.0 M

* Forms the $506 million year-over-year variance for Fleet.

D – Financial Issue Notes

D4 - Refocusing on Government Spending

Question 1: How will the Department achieve their targeted reductions without affecting services to Canadians?

Question 2: How will the Department avoid affecting employees?

Question 3: What are the impacts of the reductions on programs?

Question 4: What are the impacts of the reductions on Fisheries Science, Enforcement, and Small Craft Harbours?

Question 5: What is the “stop the clock” measure and why has it been implemented at DFO?

Question 6: What will be the impact of implementing “stop the clock” on employees?

Background

Savings targets 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 and ongoing

Travel Reductions

9,539,000

9,539,000

9,539,000

9,539,000

Operating Reductions

40,992,711

60,019,193

83,924,743

74,532,306

Transfer Payments Reductions

3,035,589

3,259,094

9,559,094

18,899,094

ProfessionalServices Reductions

31,845,450

32,347,963

32,347,963

32,400,400

Total Reductions

85,412,750

105,165,250

135,370,800

135,370,800

Fiscal Year Reference Levels Fiscal Framework Total

2024-25

83,518,224

1,894,526

85,412,750

2025-26

102,768,211

2,397,039

105,165,250

2026-27 and ongoing

126,973,761

8,397,039

135,370,800

D5 - Fisheries and Oceans Canada Workforce Profile

Question 1: How does Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s growth compare to the rest of the public service?

Background

D6 - Support for Fish Harvesters

Question 1: Why is there no support provided for the recent TAC reduction in EGSL shrimp fishery?

Background

D7 - Atlantic Fisheries Fund

Question 1: Why have there been delays in extending the program?

Background

D8 - Quebec Fisheries Fund

Question 1: Will the program’s end date be amended?

Background

The cost is shared with the province, divided 70 percent federal and 30 percent provincial, over the duration of the program.

D9 - Procurement at DFO

Question 1: What controls are in place to prevent a similar situation that happened with the ArriveCan application?

Question 2: What has been spent on these contracts?

Question 3: How we do know if we have employees that are moonlighting?

Background

Commodity

Competitive

Non- Competitive

Goods

$25,000

Services

$7.5 Million

$200,000

Construction

$750,000

$100,000

Architectural and Engineering

$60,000

D10 – QP Note on Budget 2024

Background

Small Craft Harbours
Fleet Renewal
Fish Stock Rebuilding

E – Canadian Coast Guard

E11 - Fleet Renewal

Question 1: How will the Canadian Coast Guard continue to maintain services?

Question 2: Why are we still seeing increases in project budgets?

Background

Annex - Procurement of New Vessels

Large Vessels:
Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel (OOSV)

Current Total Estimated Cost (TEC): $1.28 billion (taxes excluded)

Program Icebreakers (PIB)

Current TEC: N/A – no TEC has been released publicly

Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS)

Current TEC: $2.1 billion (taxes excluded)

Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV)

Current TEC: $14.2 billion (taxes excluded)

Polar Icebreakers

Current TEC: $1.3 billion for one ship (Budget is currently under review.  2021 Parliamentary Budget Officer report estimates $7.25 billion for two ships)

Small Vessels
Search and Rescue (SAR) Lifeboats

Current TEC: $176.4 million (including taxes) for 20 vessels

Near Shore Fishery Research Vessel (NSFRV)

Current TEC: $55.5 million (taxes excluded) – contract award amount

Air Cushion Vehicles (ACV)

Current TEC: $5.0 million – contract award amount

Mid-Shore Multi-Mission (MSMM) Vessels

Current TEC: N/A – no TEC has been released publicly

E12 - Wrecked, Abandoned and Hazardous Vessels

Question 1: How many vessels have been removed by the Government of Canada?

Question 2: How many hazardous vessels have been identified?

Question 3: How does the Canadian Coast Guard and Transport Canada work together to address wrecked, abandoned or hazardous vessels?

Question 4: Who pays for the Canadian Coast Guard to respond to pollution or hazards caused by hazardous and polluting vessels?

Background

E13 - Maritime Search and Rescue

Question 1: What steps have been taken to address the recommendations from the report When every Minute Counts – Maritime Search and Rescue?

Question 2: How is the Canadian Coast Guard addressing Safety at Sea?

Question 3: What is the Canadian Coast Guard doing to respond to requests for increased SAR capacity in Northern Labrador?

Background

F – DFO Issue Notes

F14 - CESD Audit Marine Fisheries Catch

Question 1: Why hasn’t the Department been able to implement the Fishery Monitoring Policy?

Question 2: How is the Department ensuring its fisheries information systems are modernized in a timely manner?

Question 3: What is the Department doing to review its third-party observer programs and the ability of the programs to deliver catch monitoring information as required? 

Background

F15 - North Atlantic Right Whale

Question 1: How is the Department addressing economic impacts on harvesters?

Question 2: What advances are being made to address entanglement risks while allowing fishing?

Background

F16 - Small Craft Harbours

Background

F17 - Science at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans

Question 1: What is the Department doing to ensure impartial and transparent science?

Background

F18 - Climate Change

Question 1: How is climate change currently impacting Canadian fisheries?

Question 2: What measures are being taken to support climate resilient fisheries? 

Background

F19 - Permitting Process to Support Clean Growth

Question 1: Why is Fisheries and Oceans Canada taking so long to authorize certain projects?

Question 2: Does the government intend to lower protection standards for fish and fish habitat to advance the projects needed to meet Canada’s net zero commitments?

Background

F20 - Food, Social and Ceremonial (FSC) Fisheries

Question 1: How does DFO decide how to issue food, social, and ceremonial licenses?

Question 2: What is DFO doing to combat unauthorized sale of FSC catch?

Question 3: How is the Department working towards further implementing rights-based FSC fishing?

Background

F21 - Indigenous Moderate Livelihood Fishing

Question 1: How will the Government ensure that Indigenous peoples have the fishing licences (“access”) needed to exercise their rights? 

Background

F22 - Reconciliation and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act

Question 1: How is the Department working towards reconciliation?

Question 2: How will the Department implement the UN Declaration Action Plan?

Background

F23 - Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs)

Background

F24 - Internal Measures to Tackle System Racism and in Support of Reconciliation

Question 1: What internal activities is the Department undertaking to eliminate systemic racism against Indigenous Peoples?

Question 2: What is the Department doing to ensure representation of Indigenous Peoples within its workforce?

Background

Table 1. National workforce representation of Indigenous Peoples and the Workforce Availability (WFA) gaps over the past 3.5 years

-

2020-2021

2021-2022

2022-2023

2023-2024

Representation

622

682

718

771

Gap

70

149

131

195

EX Gap

-1

4

3

2

F25 - Transformation of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation

If pressed:

Background

F26 - Marine Conservation

F27 - Task Group on Traceability and Labelling of Fish and Seafood Products

Current status

Next Steps

F28 - Fisheries Catch Data Collection – Electronic Logbooks

Question 1: Why hasn’t the Department inputted cod catch data into the Newfoundland regional licensing system over the last three years?

Question 2: What is the Department doing to address data that is outdated (i.e.: several years old)?

Question 3: What is DFO doing with respect to cost, connectivity, data accuracy and security? 

Background

F29 - Ghost Gear

Question 1: Why is there no more funding for the Ghost Gear Fund?

Question 2: How were projects chosen, and how do you address issues with specific projects?

Background

F30 - Atlantic Salmon Direct Genetic Interactions Risk Assessment on the East Coast

Question 1: What is the department doing to mitigate the risk of interbreeding between farmed and wild Atlantic salmon?

Question 2: What are some of the knowledge gaps that exist for Atlantic salmon farm-wild genetic interactions?

Background

F31 - Foreign Ownership

Question 1: Does the Department intend to immediately ban foreign ownership of fishing licences on the West Coast?

Question 2: What additional information can be revealed about the licence holders with foreign ownership?

Question 3: What else will the West Coast Fisheries Modernization engagement cover? 

Background

F32 - Judicial Review of the Re-Issuance of Clearwater’s Licences to a Coalition of Atlantic Mi’kmaq First Nations

If pressed on DFO’s position on the Federal Court’s Decision made on April 26, 2024

Background

G – Regional Notes

G33 - Elver Fishery

If pressed on elver arrests in Shelburne area March 26, 2024?

Question 1: What is the Department Reviewing?

Question 2: Given the decision not to issue licences for 2024, how are you enforcing unauthorized fishing?

Question 3: Will you offer compensation to licence holders?

Background

G34 - Shrimp and Redfish Fishery

Question 1: Will Fisheries and Oceans compensate Estuary and Gulf shrimp harvesters to help them get through this crisis?

Question 2: How will the reopening of the Unit 1 redfish fishery help shrimp harvesters?

Background

G35 - Lobster Fishery

Question 1: Why did the department deny the request from the PEIFA?

Question 2: What are the current flexibilities for the lobster fishery?

Question 3: How will the Ministry allocate these permits?

Question 4: Will other licenses be issued in other fishing areas?

Background

Gulf Region
Quebec Region

G36 - Capelin Management Approach for Newfoundland and Labrador

Question 1: How will the Department balance the broad demands of stakeholders regarding the capelin fishery (including what seems to be a disconnect between what harvesters say they see on the water and the science findings on capelin)?

Question 2: Some stakeholders disagreed with the participation of Environmental Non-Government Organizations (ENGOs) in the consultation process. How has the department addressed this?

Background

G37 - Tidal Energy

Question 1: How is the Task Force engaging with other implicated partners and stakeholders?

Question 2: What has the Task Force delivered?

Background

G38 - Avon River Tidal Gate/Highway 101 Twinning

Question 1: Why is your Department’s review taking so long?

Question 2: Will your department consider the impacts to the community that has developed around the area?

Background

G39 - Striped Bass

Question 1: Why don’t you reduce the population of striped bass to protect Atlantic salmon?

Question 2: If striped bass populations are improving, why are temporary closures to the fishery still necessary during the summer?

Question 3: Are striped bass having an effect on the lobster population?

Background

G40 - Establishment of the Arctic Region

Question 1:  What does the creation of the Arctic Region mean for northerners?

Question 2: What are some of the flagship initiatives in the Arctic Region?

Background

G41 - Treaty Negotiations on the West Coast

G42 - Northern (2J3KL) Cod Stock Science

Question 1: Was logbook data for northern cod for the years 2020-2023 analyzed and used in the recent stock assessment that was completed in March 2024?

Question 2: What is the impact of seal predation on cod?

Question 3: Why was the model and reference value changed?

Background

Ecosystem Considerations

G43 - Aquaculture – Open Net Pen Transition Plan

Question 1: What work has Fisheries and Oceans Canada done so far?

Question 2: When will the transition plan be finalized?

Background

Discovery Islands

G44 - Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative

Question 1: What actions is the Department taking under the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative?

Background

G45 - Atlantic Mackerel – Opening of Bait Fishery

Question 1: Why have you decided to release this bait quota in two parts?

Question 2: How will this plan enhance scientific knowledge of the Atlantic mackerel stock?

Background

H – Annex – Additional information

H46 - Key Fisheries Management Decisions (Now to May 2024)

Region Fishery Description Key Messages

Maritimes

Elver - 2024 season approach

Signed by the Minister on March 8, 2024

Seeking a ministerial decision on a pre-emptive closure in 2024.

I am committed to the conservation of American eel, with sustainability and orderly management as the top priorities for the elver fishery.

Over the last several years, the elver fishery has seen a pattern of increasing and very serious challenges, including safety and conservation concerns.

Since the closure of the commercial elver fishery on April 15, 2023, DFO has consulted with industry, First Nations and stakeholders to chart a path forward for the future of the elver fishery. 

Despite best efforts, these changes will not be in place to support a 2024 fishery.

After soliciting views from elver licence holders, Indigenous organizations and First Nations on the impacts of not opening the fishery, I am convinced that there is no way top operate this fishery in 2024 that will ensure the conservation of the stock and public safety.

NCR

Atlantic Mackerel: Rebuilding Plan and Management Approach for 2024

Signed April 12

Minister concurred with the recommendations in the memo at Tab 1 but direct that a 470 t bait fishery be implemented as described in this memo.

Seeking a ministerial decision on the rebuilding plan for Atlantic mackerel and the associated management approach for 2024 .

The 2023 Canadian stock assessment found that Atlantic mackerel declined further in the critical zone since the last assessment, with spawning stock biomass at its lowest-observed values.

Atlantic mackerel plays a critical role in our ecosystem. We need Atlantic mackerel – and other pelagic forage stocks – to be healthy to protect our ecosystems and support the fisheries of the future.

The 470 tonne Atlantic mackerel bait fishery will help licence holders supply their other fisheries with bait without jeopardizing the ongoing rebuilding of this stock. By releasing the quota in two equal parts, harvesters from different regions will have a better opportunity for equitable access to Atlantic mackerel as the stock migrates through the waters of Atlantic Canada and Quebec.

All

Rebuilding Plans

Seeking a Ministerial decision on the following rebuilding plans:

- 3Pn4RS Atlantic Cod (Rebuilding Plan)

- Northern Shrimp SFA 6 (Rebuilding Plan)

My department is working diligently to develop these rebuilding plans within the prescribed time parameters. I am confident we will meet those targets.

SFA 6 & 3Pn4RS Atlantic Cod: The extension memo was approved on March 22. The approved extension was for 3 months to allow the stocks’ rebuilding plans to be considered jointly with the fisheries management advice for 2024-25:

  • For Northern shrimp SFA 6, a decision on 2024-25 management measures, including total allowable catch (TAC), will be sought once science advice becomes available in mid-March 2023 and after the Northern Shrimp Advisory Committee (NSAC) meeting, which is scheduled for April 3, 2024
  • For Atlantic Cod 3Pn4RS, the proposed management measures cannot be finalized until after the Gulf Groundfish Advisory Committee meeting, which is scheduled for March 13, 2024. The decision memo with proposed management measures, including TAC, will be provided after that meeting, in mid-April upon regional approvals

Gulf Groundfish (American Plaice 4T, Atlantic Cod 4TVn, White Hake 4T, Winter Flounder 4T): The memo was approved on March 26. The proposed management measures in the now approved memo are:

  1. reduce removals from all sources to the lowest possible level
  2. monitor sources of fishing mortality and enforce compliance of management measures; and
  3. advance scientific knowledge of stock status, recruitment, environmental conditions, and ecosystem factors. It is not feasible to establish rebuilding timelines for these stocks as they are unlikely to rebuild due to environmental factors

3Ps Cod: The memo was approved on March 26. The approved rebuilding plan includes objectives and management measures to promote stock growth out of the Critical zone. The rebuilding plan is expected to be publicly available in the coming weeks.

Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence Herring, Spring Spawner Component: 2024 Fishery and Rebuilding Plan: The memo was approved March 26. The approved rebuilding plan recommends maintaining the closure of the fishery for 2024. The closure would be revisited in 2025, using the science advice from the late March 2024 stock assessment.

Nfld & Lab

Northern Cod (2J3KL)

Seeking a ministerial decision on the 2024 management approach.

Peer review of the Northern cod stock assessment took place from March 18-21, 2024. This is the first assessment of this stock to use the updated assessment model and Limit Reference Point (LRP) defined at the 2023  Framework  process. The results of this assessment indicated that the Northern cod stock is currently in the Cautious zone, ~20% above the Limit Reference Point.

The Department sought views from the 2+3KLMNO Advisory Committee on the management approach for 2024 including an appropriate access and allocation key if the current Stewardship fishery were to become a commercial fishery.

A decision memo on an approach for this fishery for the 2024 fishing season is pending. The 2024 Northern cod management decision will consider the best available Science advice and input from Indigenous partners, harvesters, the provincial government and other industry stakeholders.

Nfld & Lab

Capelin (4RST) & (2J3KLPs)

Seeking a ministerial decision on the 2024 management approach.

The Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) assessment for the 4RST capelin stock and the 2J3KLPs capelin indicated that neither stock was in the critical zone.  The total allowable catch for 4RST capelin has been set at 10,225 t which is a rollover from 2023. The 2J3KLPs advisory committee was held in March; however, industry walked out due to the addition of ENGOs to the committee, and later submitted views directly to the department. A decision on the 2024 management plan will be needed by the first week of June 2024.

Nfld & Lab

Recreational Groundfish

Seeking a ministerial decision on the 2024 management approach.

The recreational groundfish fishery in NL primarily targets Atlantic cod in the NAFO management areas 2J3KL, 3Ps, and 3Pn4RS, with the highest concentration of activity occurring in 2J3KL (Northern cod stock area).

From 2018 to 2023, the annual season for the NL recreational groundfish fishery has been open for a total of 39 days; including a period of ten weekends in the summer (every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday), with an additional nine-day period in late September-early October. Management measures have included a daily bag limit of five groundfish per person and a maximum boat limit (when three or more people are fishing) of 15 groundfish.

A decision on the management approach for the 2024 recreational groundfish fishery in NL has not yet been made.  The Department will take the most recent science advice for all three stocks into account when making a management decision for NL’s recreational groundfish fishery for the 2024 season, along with stakeholder perspectives and other considerations.

NCR

Redfish Unit 1 Management Plan for 2024-25

Seeking a ministerial decision on the management measures, including TAC, for 2024-25.

The re-opening of the commercial Redfish fishery in Unit 1 was announced on January 26, 2024, with a total allowable catch (TAC) of at least 25,000 tonnes.

Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence shrimp licence holders and Indigenous harvesters each received 10 percent of the allocation. The inshore and midshore fleet allocations remained unchanged from the pre-moratorium fishery. The offshore fleet received the largest share, albeit reduced by 20% their pre-moratorium share.

The Department sought views from Indigenous groups, industry stakeholders, and provincial partners through the Redfish Advisory Committee  (RAC) on March 4-7 on a management plan for the fishery in 2024.

All views shared at the RAC and in written submissions will be taken into consideration to inform a decision on the 2024 management plan for the Unit 1 Redfish fishery, including Total Allowable Catch (TAC), management measures, and approaches to distribute allocations.

NCR

Redfish Unit 2

Seeking a ministerial decision for the approval to set aside an allocation of 1,500 tonnes of Unit 2 Redfish for 2024-25 under Section 10 of the Fisheries Act to support the continuation of a joint industry-DFO project to conduct a survey of Redfish off the south coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Department sought views from Unit 2 stakeholders on the Total Allowable Catch and the continuation of a 1,500 t allocation for the Use of Fish at the Redfish Advisory Committee meeting in Halifax in early March, 2024 .The 1,500 t Use of Fish allocation is the only source of science information for this stock, with the survey work being undertaken by the Atlantic Groundfish Council under a collaborative agreement with DFO Science. Unit 2 stakeholders supported maintaining  the Use of Fish allocation for 2024-25. The decision on the use of fish allocation is pending.

NCR

Shrimp Fishing Areas 4-6

Seeking a Ministerial decision on Total Allowable Catches for borealis in each SFA 4, 5 and 6. Decisions are also sought for P montagui, a bycatch species in SFA 4, and for the continuation of the 1500 t Use of Fish allocation from SFA 4. SFA 4 is in the Healthy zone, SFA 5 is just below the Upper Stock reference point, in the Cautious zone. SFA 6 remains in the critical zone, and as a Batch 1 stock, approval of the Rebuilding Plan is requested concurrent with the TAC decision for this area.

The Department met with the Northern Shrimp Advisory Committee (NSAC) in St John’s on April 3, and with Indigenous groups on April 4 to discuss management measures, including total allowable catches for Northern shrimp in each of SFA 4, 5 and 6. New Harvest Decision Rules (HDRs) were established by a working group of NSAC, and endorsed by all NSAC members, with the exception of the Torngat Joint Fisheries Board. The HDRs were applied to the science advice to generate the TACs for SFAs 4 and 5. The Rebuilding Plan was used to generate the recommended TAC for SFA 6.

The fishery in these areas opened on April 1. Interim TACs have been released in SFAs 4 and 5 to allow fishing operations to begin. Due to SFA 6 being in the Critical zone, no interims were released and fishing activity will begin once a decision is made.

Given that the Use of Fish allocation in SFA 4 is the only source of science information for SFA 4 and the Eastern Assessment Zone, there was support for the continuation of this allocation by the offshore fleet. However, some Indigenous groups (NunatuKavut Community Council, the Nunatsiavut Government, the Innu) called for the Department to undertake the Science work and redistribute the 1,500 t allocation to adjacent Indigenous groups.

Gulf

4RST Atlantic Halibut

Seeking a ministerial decision on the 2024 management approach.

In 2024, there was no new scientific assessment conducted for the 4RST Atlantic halibut stock. The most recent stock assessment (March 2023) informed the 2023-24 TAC and indicated that the stock biomass and abundance are at a high level.

The Department sought stakeholder views of the Gulf Groundfish Advisory Committee (GGAC) on the TAC for 2024-25 on March 13, 2024. Views were also sought on the temporary transfer of Atlantic halibut allocation from the mobile gear fleet to the fixed gear fleet.

A decision on an approach for this fishery for the 2024 fishing season is pending.

Maritimes

Unama’ki & Epekiwitk District Moderate Livelihood Lobster

Options for the Authorization of the 2024 Unama’ki & Epekiwitk District Moderate Livelihood Lobster Fishery

The Department has identified three options to address ongoing concerns raised through consultation and discussions with the KMKNO on behalf of the communities regarding the implementation of the Unama’ki & Epekiwitk Aqq Piktuk Netukulimk Treaty Right Protected Fisheries Species-Specific Interim Lobster Fisheries Management Plan.

The proposed options respond to a request from KMKNO and their representative First Nations to implement and test a total allowable catch (TAC) based lobster fishery as opposed to the current trap allocation-based approach. Furthermore, the Department has learned, and the Plan indicates, that harvester interest to participate has increased significantly this season. However, the current available access is not sufficient access to authorize these additional harvesters.

Lobster seasons have started in applicable LFAs of 26B and 31A, using the status quo from 2023. The KMKNO reject this approach and have indicated that they intend to fish using more traps than DFO has authorized and applying using a TAC as the primary management measure. However, an in-season adjustment in response to this request is still under consideration.

H47 - Fisheries Act Review

H48 - Annual report: administration of sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the Fisheries Act

H49 - Aquatic Invasive Species QP Note

If pressed - New Investments to Fight Against Aquatic Invasive Species in Canada

If pressed - Zebra and Quagga Mussels

Prairies
Funding in British Columbia
Québec and Eastern Canada

If Pressed - Funding allocation

If pressed - Invasive Smallmouth Bass in Miramichi Watershed

If pressed - European Green Crab

If pressed - Asian Carps

If pressed - Goldfish

If pressed - Vase tunicate

Background

Aquatic Invasive Species
Zebra and Quagga Mussels
Miramichi Lake and River
European Green Crab
AIS as Bait

H50 - Scientific Processes and Excellence at Fisheries and Oceans Canada (QP Note)

If pressed on recent allegations

If pressed on integrity and transparency

Background

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