June 1, 2012
News Release – Impacts of EI Changes on Fishers June 1, 2012
The Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association opposes the proposed changes to Fisher Employment Insurance in Atlantic Canada.
These changes will have significant adverse effects on rural communities and local economies.
Core Fishers are key contributors to PEI’s third largest industry generating 90+M in lobster sales alone. This does not include value added product and other species.
Currently Employment Insurance does extend benefits to fishers that qualify.
Repayment of EI benefits does occur if annual net earnings exceed a pre determined amount.
Many harvesters do not draw EI benefits based on their fishing revenue and other non fishing income.
A significant drop in prices paid for lobster in 2008 has led to more fishers requiring these benefits. Although prices have rebounded somewhat in recent years, in many cases current revenues are not sufficient to cover operating costs.
Most fishers are holders of multiple species licenses; however, a number of Gulf species are under moratorium and quota reduction. These stocks are managed by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) with limited input from the fishing community.
This further limits the ability for fishers to generate additional income from fishing.
As many captains and crew members are highly qualified, it will be difficult to match their skill sets with comparable local jobs. In addition, many weeks of preparation time are required to prepare nets, buoys and boats for the applicable fishery.
The core fishers on PEI are continually seeking ways to increase the price and quality of their catches. Trap reductions, license retirements and quality initiatives are several ways in which harvesters are contributing to a healthier and sustainable industry. Higher product prices are the preferred solution to reduce EI dependency.
The PEIFA advocates that the Fisher EI be left status quo and that meaningful dialogue take place between the fishing community and the Federal government on ways to improve the profitability of the industry.
For more information contact PEIFA President Mike McGeoghegan at (902) 394-3510.
Telephone: (902) 566-4050
Fax: 902-368-3748
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