VANCOUVER ­ The Honourable Robert G. Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced an allocation framework between the commercial and recreational sectors in the Pacific halibut fishery.  A 12 per cent recreational catch "ceiling" will be allocated to the recreational sector until both parties can develop an acceptable mechanism that will allow for adjustment of the recreational share through acquisition of additional quota from the commercial sector. 

"The Pacific halibut allocation framework balances the interests of both the commercial and recreational sectors," said Minister Thibault.  "This framework provides certainty and stability for the commercial sector and allows for future growth of the recreational sector.  I have also made a commitment that there will be no closure of the sport fishery in-season." 

A growing recreational sector in the mid to late 1990s prompted commercial interests to seek the establishment of shares for each sector.  Work on developing an allocation framework in the Pacific halibut fishery began in 2000.  The department hired a facilitator, Dr. Edwin Blewett, to work with stakeholders to develop an allocation framework.  The sectors agreed on several principles, but were unable to reach agreement on key elements of an allocation arrangement. In 2002, Stephen Kelleher was retained to provide independent advice on initial allocations and recommendations on how allocations could be adjusted over time.  Since Mr. Kelleher's report was completed, representatives from the department have made numerous attempts to achieve a consensus with both sectors with no success. 

Mr. Kelleher's report concluded the existing system is unfair, given the absence of an official allocation scheme.  He also indicated that, during his review of the situation with both sectors, that neither party presented reasonable positions, requiring a third option.  The decision to set a 12 per cent catch ceiling for the recreational sector, three per cent above Mr. Kelleher's recommendation, does not represent a significant gain for either group.  The department will focus on improving recreational catch estimates and allow time for both sectors to develop a suitable market-based mechanism for future allocation adjustments, as per Mr. Kelleher's recommendation. 

Current daily and possession limits will not be increased to ensure that growth is achieved through increased participation, rather than higher catches by existing anglers. Like the commercial sector, the recreational allocation will vary with stock abundance. However, if abundance levels decline or the angling effort increases during this time, DFO will implement alternative measures such as restricting the bag limit in order to avoid any in-season closures.

Contact:

Michelle Imbeau
Communications
Fisheries and Oceans Canada,
Vancouver
(604) 666-2872

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