OTTAWA - The Honourable Robert G.Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today introduced a bill to amend the Fisheries Act.

"Introduction of the proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act fulfils commitments the Government of Canada made to the House of Commons/Senate Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations," the Minister said. "To provide greater clarity, the proposed amendments also address specific issues raised by the Committee relating to the Aboriginal Communal Fishing Licences Regulations. Passage of the amendments into law will not change existing practices on the ground."

The Aboriginal Communal Fishing Licences Regulations (ACFLR) are valid and in force. They are an important component of Fisheries and Oceans Canada's Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy and its Marshall Response Initiative. Communal licences issued under the ACFLR provide Aboriginal groups with access to fisheries for food, social and ceremonial purposes and with access to commercial fisheries.

"Conservation of the resource and the orderly management of fisheries remain priorities of the department," the Minister said.  

Contact:

Sophie Galarneau
Manager, Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
(613) 998-1530

Caroline Quinn
Director of Communications
Office Fisheries and Oceans Canadaof the Minister
Ottawa
(613) 992-3474