NR-QR-04-62E

December 21, 2004

PROHIBITION AGAINST HARVESTING SHELLFISH IN
CLOSED SHELLFISH AREAS

QUEBEC – Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Quebec Region, wishes to advise the public that shellfish harvesting is strictly prohibited in closed areas pursuant to orders made in compliance with the Management of Contaminated Fisheries Regulations. As well, mollusks should not be harvested within 200 metres of the wharf.

Consumption of contaminated shellfish is dangerous. The effects may cause paralysis and even death.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada urges the public to report poachers by calling 1-800-463-9057. Fish dealers are asked to co-operate with the Department by checking the source of the shellfish they are purchasing.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is maintaining rigorous application of its "zero tolerance" policy on violators of the Fisheries Act. The Department, whose mandate is to protect and conserve fishery resources, is keeping a close eye on shellfish harvesting in prohibited areas in order to help protect public health

For the latest information on shellfish harvesting, please call one of the following numbers:

CHARLEVOIX, NORTH SHORE AND ANTICOSTI ISLAND LOWER ST. LAWRENCE AND GASPÉ
from’Île-aux-Coudres to Trinity Bay: (800) 463-8558 from St-Roch-des-Aulnaies to Cape Gaspé: ( 800) 463-0607
from Trinity Bay to Blanc-Sablon: (800) 463-1736 from Cape Gaspé to Matapédia River: (800) 463-4204
MAGDALEN ISLANDS: (418) 986-3882

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Michel Plamondon
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Quebec City, Quebec
(418) 648-5419