11/07/2016
For Immediate Release
Monday, November 7, 2016
St. John’s – Today’s announcement on the re-opening of the Canadian Coast Guard Search and Rescue Sub-Centre in St. John’s and on investments to increase marine safety are welcome news to the province’s fish harvesters. The St. John’s sub-centre, in addition to lifeboat stations in Twillingate, Bay de Verde and St. Anthony will play a critical role in ensuring an efficient and effective response to vessels in distress.
“The previous federal government attempted to cut costs and balance the books at the expense of marine safety,” said Keith Sullivan, President of the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW-Unifor). “Newfoundland and Labrador fish harvesters are pleased to see that the Liberal government is re-prioritizing safety by re-opening the sub-centre and the St. Anthony station and investing in new lifeboat stations.”
In response to the closure in 2012 many organizations, including FFAW-Unifor, held demonstrations calling for the centre to be re-opened. Leading up to the 2015 federal election, FFAW-Unifor received a commitment from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that the centre would be re-opened under a federal Liberal government. This commitment was re-iterated in the mandate letter of the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.
“The profession of fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations,” continued Sullivan. “We looking forward to working with our members, the Fish Harvesting Safety Association and the federal government to continue to improve safety for those who earn their living at sea.”
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For media inquiries:
Jessica McCormick, Communications Officer
709-576-7276
jmccormick@ffaw.net