Governments Set Up Task Group to Provide Advice on the Integrated Management of Post Treaty Fisheries

VANCOUVER, B.C. – The HonourableRobert G. Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans of Canada, the Honourable Geoff Plant, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Treaty Negotiations of British Columbia and the Honourable John van Dongen, Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Fisheries of British Columbia, have announced the establishment of a two-member task group to explore fishery arrangements that bring greater certainty for all fishery participants in a post-treaty era.

"Setting up the task group is part of a cooperative effort by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Government of British Columbia to address vital issues relating to the fishery," Minister Thibault said. "The task group will provide expert, independent advice on how to ensure an integrated, economically viable marine fisheries sector in B.C. consistent with treaties."

"Both governments have a mutual interest in ensuring a viable post-treaty fishery," Minister Plant said. "We need to work co-operatively to achieve greater certainty for fisheries arrangements in a way that supports treaty settlements and creates new economic opportunities."

"We want to ensure that our fish resources are managed fairly, equitably and responsibly, in a way that meets the needs of all British Columbians – aboriginal and non-aboriginal alike," Minister van Dongen said.

Mr. Donald M. McRae, Professor of Law at the University of Ottawa, has been appointed as the federal representative by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. Dr. Peter H. Pearse, Professor Emeritus at the University of British Columbia, has been named by the Government of British Columbia.

The task group will focus on a wide range of topics aimed at developing approaches to fisheries arrangements that support treaty settlement and will support a sustainable, equitable, economically viable and well-managed fishery. The outcome of the joint task group will assist governments in working with First Nations and other participants to implement comprehensive solutions to the challenges faced in developing a post-treaty fishery.