National Chief Shawn Atleo is concerned about recent cuts in crab fishery quota in the Atlantic Region

Statement

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo was in Elsipogtog First Nations today to meet with the AFN’s Regional Chief for New Brunswick-PEI, Roger Augustine, and First Nations in the region to discuss issues of importance and urgent concern. A key issue is serious concerns about the 63% cut in the crab fishery quota announced by Federal Fisheries Minister Gail Shea.”I am told that this cut is not consistent with discussions held a few months ago by the Minister and the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat,” said National Chief Atleo during a press conference in Moncton. “This cut will have major impacts for more than 350 First Nations crab fishers and will directly reduce their income. The federal government must respect and honour its duty to work with us and involve us in any decisions that impact our people and our rights. I join the Regional Chief and the First Nations leaders in this region in calling for a process in whereby all parties can come together – including the federal government and non-First Nations partners – to work together in developing a long-term sustainable plan for the crab fishery.”