Member Update – April 13

We know many members have questions about the current situation in the crab fishery.

At this time, the decision of the Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel remains in effect, meaning a collective agreement is considered to be in place under the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act. That decision establishes a minimum starting price with a market-based escalator that can increase the price as market conditions change.

Under the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act, a cessation of business or strike cannot be authorized or declared by the FFAW or its representatives while a collective agreement is in force.  Individual harvesters continue to make their own decisions about whether to fish and where they choose to sell their catch. These are individual decisions between harvesters and processors.

We recognize that this situation is frustrating for many harvesters. FFAW-Unifor will continue to represent members and advocate for harvesters and coastal communities within the existing legislative and legal framework. While it is not a resumption of collective bargaining, we are continuing open communication with government and the ASP on ways we can improve the current situation.

Members will be kept informed as this matter progresses. Official updates will continue to be shared only through FFAW channels.