Prince Edward Island Fishermen's Assoc.

MEDIA RELEASE….

March 23, 2010

Fishermen Refute Processors’ Claims of High Prices

Island fishermen are outraged by recent remarks made by the executive director of the P.E.I. Seafood Processors Association.

“P.E.I. fisherman — and this is a point that I hope people realize — were paid as much or more as anyplace else in Atlantic Canada for their fish,” said Olin Gregan, in an interview with the CBC.

In 2009, Island shore prices per pound for lobster ranged from $2.75-$3.15 for canners and $3.50-$3.75 for markets.

At the same time, Nova Scotia lobster fishermen fishing in same waters off the Northumberland Strait were paid up to $1.25 more per pound.

Prices in the Magdalene Islands and Gaspe were also higher than those in P.E.I., while prices in the Scotia Fundy region continued to be higher than the Island’s.

“We have asked processors, government and various consultants, why such a difference in prices between provinces,” said Mike McGeoghegan, president of the P.E.I. Fishermen’s Association.

“No one has provided a proper answer.”

Bobby Jenkins, a PEIFA board member and president of the Southern Kings and Queens Local said Gregan’s comments are at best misleading and divisive.

“We have the hard evidence of higher prices being paid elsewhere that dispute Gregan’s comments. We demand he make a retraction.”

The PEIFA constructed a lobster quality working group to address lobster quality issues to address the complaints of financial loss coming from processors.

Island processors were invited to participate on a number of occasions, but failed to send any representatives each time, said McGeoghegan.

“Our attempt at establishing a positive working relationship with the Processors Association has been shattered by their lack of support and statements.

“We simply cannot accept the contradictions of the Processors Association any longer.”

The PEIFA is also expecting improved shore prices this season.

Inventories are down substantially from last year and demand is high with new buyers approaching fishermen for lobster, said the association.

The value of the Canadian dollar has strengthened and is the only factor adding pressure to lobster exports.

Processors are in a position to demand higher prices and those increases must be passed on to fishermen, said McGeoghegan.

“We expect higher prices or the Island lobster industry will suffer grave consequences.

“It’s time for our provincial government to stand up and ensure fair and equal prices are paid to Island lobster fishermen.”

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For further information please contact:

Michael McGeoghegan,

President, PEIFA

(902) 659-2264 or (902) 394-3510