SNOW CRAB UPDATE
May 5, 2023
Earlier today, ASP made a new offer to the FFAW Snow Crab Bargaining Committee, bringing the industry closer to a solution this season. Presented for consideration was:
- Price will not go below 2.20 for remainder of the 2023 season;
- Both FFAW and ASP reserve the right for reconsiderations at prices above 2.20, so should market conditions improve, harvesters can submit a reconsideration for a higher price;
- Trip limits and scheduling will be enforced to ensure fairness and equity, and orderliness in the fishery
There is also a strong commitment to buy crab for the whole season.
The bargaining committee was presented with the offer this afternoon and followed-up with a virtual meeting with the Inshore Council and all Crab Chairs. Harvesters continue to express concern regarding the low price of 2.20 per pound, and whether companies are committing to buy for the whole season in all fisheries. Questions and concerns regarding the proposed trip limit schedule must also be resolved. Season extensions will also be requested to DFO.
Leadership have requested to consult directly with their fleets over the next 24 hours and will report back findings for another call tomorrow afternoon.
The FFAW continues to emphasize the importance of a fair pricing formula that would be set transparently based on actual market and yield returns. This is absolutely necessary to ensure stability and fairness into the future.