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DARTMOUTH, NS – In order to ensure a safe start to the Southwest Nova
Scotia lobster season, numerous aircraft and marine vessels from four government
organizations are participating in the opening of one of Canada’s most lucrative
fisheries next week. The Department of National Defence (DND), the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture (NSFA) and
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) are all increasing patrolling efforts to help
kick off the season in Lobster Fishing Areas 33 and 34.
Historically, the majority of marine search and rescue incidents in this fishery
occur within the first two days of the lobster fishery opening. As a
precautionary measure, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Halifax will have
Coast Guard vessels and Canadian Forces aircraft standing by on an increased
level of preparedness next Monday and Tuesday, November 27 and 28. Aerial and
aquatic patrols will be carried out in the region to maximize safety. A Canadian
Forces (CF) CC-130 Hercules aircraft and a CF CH-149 Cormorant helicopter will
periodically patrol the area over the two-day period.
Additionally, DFO, RCMP and NSFA will be working together to tackle illegal
lobster fishing activities. This year, the level of inspections of lobster
catches for both buyers and sellers will be increased. Law enforcement
cooperation has been stepped up to ensure that a culture of conservation
prevails in the industry and to safeguard its sustainability.
The Southwest Nova lobster fishery is home to more than 1,700 licence holders,
and generates income for more than 5,000 households. The lobster fishery and its
benefits to fishers are central to the life of local coastal communities.
All government partners are committed to working together to ensure the safety
of fishers and the continued prosperity of the fishery.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
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National Defence
Joint Task Force (Atlantic)
Public Affairs
902-427-3766
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Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Sgt. Frank Skidmore
Media Relations Office
902-426-5120 |
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Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Communications Branch
Maritimes Region
902-426-3550
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Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture
Natalie Webster
Director of Communications
902-424-0192 |
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NR-MAR-06-14E |
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Southwest Nova Scotia Lobster Season to Open Monday