FFAW President Meets with Federal Fisheries Minister
May 20, 2020
This evening, Keith Sullivan and other members of the Canadian Independent Fish Harvesters Federation (CIFHF) spoke to Minister Bernadette Jordan. The Federation noted that while they were pleased that there has been consideration given for the significant impacts of COVID-19 on the fishery, many questions remain.
The Minister explained that details of the programs announced, such as the wage subsidy and enterprise grant, will be made available in the coming weeks. The CIFHF stressed the need to get clarity on these programs as soon as possible.
Minister Jorden did confirm that other workers, such as fish plant workers, are not forgotten in regard to wage security such as extended EI. According to the Minister, workers outside of fish harvesters will get support from the federal government as well.
Further considerations will be required for fish harvesters and their families, especially if there are limited sales for fish or significant loan obligations to be met. FFAW has proposed interest free loans that would help harvesters survive the dismal 2020 season.
FFAW will continue to push to ensure that workers impacted by COVID-19 are supported by our governments.