|
DFO announces new management measures
for 4RST, 2J3KL, 3Ps capelin fisheries
St. John’s … Fisheries and Oceans Canada today announced it will increase the total allowable catch (TAC) for capelin in NAFO Division 4RST, and implement new management measures in NAFO Division 2J3KL.
The 4RST TAC will increase from 7,455t to 13,000t. This brings the TAC for 4RST to a level slightly higher than the 2003 TAC of 12,424t, and is supported by industry and science. The TAC for NAFO Division 2J3KL and Subdivision 3Ps will remain unchanged from the 2004 levels.
TACs for capelin in 4RST, 2J3KL and 3Ps were reduced by 40% for three years in 2003 as a precautionary approach, given the uncertainty around the status of capelin and its possible role in cod recovery. However, science has indicated that the capelin stock in 4RST is healthy and reinstating the TAC to its earlier level poses no conservation concern.
New management measures for the capelin fisheries in 2J3KL which were recommended by industry will be implemented for 2005.
Other measures will be implemented on a pilot project basis for 2005 including, daily limits for the fixed gear fishery in Bonavista Bay and Trinity Bay and new procedures with respect to dockside monitoring.
2005 is the final year of a three-year Integrated Capelin Management Plan. A new management plan will be in place for the 2006 season.
For more information:
Kimberley Penney
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(709) 772-7629
Susan Keough
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(709) 772-7628
|
