June 27, 2022

NunatuKavut Community Council welcomes decision from DFO Minister on the 2022 Northern Cod Stewardship Fishery

HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, LABRADOR, June 27, 2022 – NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) President Todd Russell today issued the following statement on the recent management decision made by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) on the Northern Cod Stewardship Fishery:

“We were pleased to see the latest management decision on the cod stewardship fishery, which set aside 2,600 tonnes for harvesters in 2J. This will mean that more of the resources off the shores of NunatuKavut will be harvested, landed and processed in our territory and in Labrador.

Our people are deeply connected to the sea and the fishery that make up NunatuKavut. NCC has continued to push for a fair and principled approach to allocations that recognizes our adjacency, Indigenous rights, cultural attachment and our great economic need. We thank DFO Minister Joyce Murray for understanding this approach and showing the resolve to address the unique circumstances faced by 2J fishers and our communities. We also acknowledge the tireless efforts of Labrador Member of Parliament Yvonne Jones in ensuring this decision responded to the needs of Labrador fishers, many of whom are members of NCC.

This set aside in northern cod is a strong step in the right direction and one that will provide direct benefit to many NunatuKavut Inuit families and communities. While much work remains, this latest decision, combined with some recent enhancements in our communal food fishery, is a positive sign.

NCC will continue to work with DFO to pursue the self-management of our fishery that feeds our families, ensures the livelihood of our fishers and people and sustains our communities.”

Media Contact

Kelly Broomfield
Chief Communications Officer, NCC
T: 709-280-5965
E: communications@nunatukavut.ca

Link to DFO News Release on management decision:

Management decision for Newfoundland and Labrador’s Northern Cod Stewardship Fishery