The New Brunswick government has a plan to deal with unreported lobster sales.
It’s an issue the province has identified as a challenge to the economy, trade and resource sustainability.
According to a release from the province, the Department of Justice and Public Safety will enhance enforcement measures.
At the same time, the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries will engage with stakeholders with respect to legislation, which would inform new rules or operational changes to provincial oversight systems.
Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Pat Finnigan said the initiative is part of the government’s commitment to protecting the province’s lobster fishery and ensuring fairness in the industry.
“By working with our provincial and federal partners, we aim to reduce unreported sales and strengthen the long-term sustainability of this critical industry,” Finnigan said in a statement.
Federal statistics indicate 10 to 30 per cent of lobster caught in New Brunswick goes unreported every year.
It means the loss of $5 million to $7 million in provincial tax revenue each year.
The provincial budget included $667,000 to the Department of Justice and Public Safety for a one-year pilot program to support the initiative.
The funding will pay for a co-ordinator and four enforcement positions.
“This is an important first step to ensure that everyone benefits from a level playing field,” Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin said.
