Price Setting Review Step in Right Direction for Stability in Fishing Industry

ST. JOHN’S, NL Today, Minister Responsible for Labour, Bernard Davis, released the provincial government’s review of the fish price setting process. The review, which was led by Glen Blackwood, identified a number of recommendations including a market-based price formula.

“Formula-driven, market-based pricing is the what this industry needs for long term sustainability and stability, and we’re certainly pleased to see that same sentiment reflected throughout this report,” says Greg Pretty, FFAW-Unifor President. “The report is clear that the current pricing system is flawed, and harvesters are at a disadvantage when it comes to the negotiations process,” Pretty says.

“We know how important a price formula is to ensuring an orderly fishery next year, and despite the pushback from the corporate giants, Premier Furey knows how vital this is to our province,” Pretty says. “The recommendations aren’t perfect, and we’ll certainly work with the province to ensure the Union’s recommendations are in line with the wishes of our elected leadership,” he says.

“This report’s recommendations are an important first step in correcting the injustices inflicted upon harvesters through corporate control and flawed pricing regimes,” Pretty says.

The Union’s Executive Board and Inshore Council will be reviewing the report in detail in the coming days.

The full report is linked within today’s media release from Minister Davis.