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OTTAWA – The proposed Ontario Fishing regulations should be based on the best available science and include full and complete public consultations.
Recently in the House of Commons Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MP Cheryl Gallant asked the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Loyola Hearn to ensure that the new Fishing Regulations take into account input from the public.
“Key stakeholder groups such as the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, as well as the Sportfishing Industry Association have raised serious concerns over proposed changes to Ontario fishing regulations. They are seeking regulations based on the best science available and to ensure that their views are duly considered prior to federal approval of these important regulations. Given the concerns voiced by these groups, would the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans ensure that they will be taken into account?” MP Gallant asked in the House.
Nominally fishing regulations are federal jurisdiction, but the administration of the regulations on inland waters rests with the province.
With fewer biologists, Gallant explained, important environmental and habitat decisions are being made without the benefit of science-based research. The new Conservative government is committed to maintaining clean air, clean water and a clean environment. Changes in fish habitat can be an indication of larger environmental problems.
“I am concerned about the recent occurrence of a large number of dead fish washing up along the Ottawa River shoreline between the Chenaux and Chat Dam at Fitzroy Harbour. The incident was investigated but the cause was not clearly determined,” she said.
The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans assured MP Cheryl Gallant and the members of the House of Commons that proper fisheries regulations are the key to conservation and management.
“We have a philosophy which involves the provinces and the stakeholders as we make regulations pertaining to certain areas. In this case, these regulations are provincial ones being developed in consultation with the affected groups and which will come to us for approval. We are looking forward to them completing their negotiations and we will certainly approve sound-based regulations in which they all have input,” the Minister Hearn said.
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For More Information, please Call Cheryl Gallant, M.P. at (613) 732-4404