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February 27, 2021

SUSTAINABILITY FRAMEWORK FOR ATLANTIC HERRING

Dear stakeholder,

The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans requested that the Fisheries Resource Conservation Council (FRCC) develop a long-term strategic approach to the sustainability of the Atlantic herring fisheries and the conservation of the resource. During the months of March and April the FRCC will hold public consultations to gather information and input from stakeholders. These sessions will give all participants an opportunity to voice their views about the herring fishery and to propose conservation measures for the long-term sustainable use of the resource.

The FRCC is seeking comments on all matters pertaining to the sustainability of herring fisheries as well as new approaches and ideas. The following items are provided to illustrate the types of information the Council is seeking:

• major risk factors and threats to the sustainability of the fishery
• existing best practices as well as new solutions or opportunities that would reduce risk factors and address problem areas
• scientific information requirements
• handling practices
• management and stewardship initiatives
• role of herring in the ecosystem

Attached is a list of dates and locations for upcoming consultations on Atlantic herring as well as guidelines for presenters. Although changes to the schedule are not expected, we would invite you to check the FRCC website (www.frcc-ccrh.ca) or call the Secretariat for the latest information (613) 998-0433.

The Council will be looking at the long-term sustainability of the fisheries and conservation of the resource and will not be recommending or setting Total Allowable Catch (TAC). The Council does not intend to interfere with current ongoing local initiatives to improve sustainability of the fisheries and conservation of the resource and would encourage stakeholders to pursue such work in their respective areas. Where possible, stakeholders are invited to provide readily available background material pertinent to the sustainability of the fishery.

Associations or individuals who are planning on making a presentation to the Council at one of these meetings are asked to inform the FRCC Secretariat at least one week in advance of the consultation. This will ensure that sufficient time is allocated for all presentations. In order to avoid duplication, participants are asked to offer the presentation at only one location. Please note that all briefs and presentations will be posted on the FRCC website.

Industry participants are also encouraged to take part in these meetings and advise the Council on areas that will have a long-term impact on the resource and the fishery. Written briefs can be mailed to the FRCC at P.O. Box 2001, Station D, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5W3, fax (613) 998-1146, or sent to [email protected].

Thank you for your interest in the consultation process. I encourage you to share this message with other stakeholders who may be interested in providing input to the FRCC.

Yours truly,

Jean Guy d’Entremont
Chairman