Notices to Fish Harvesters

Gaspé – August 26, 2021

Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Quebec Region announces the implementation of the Individual Transferable Quota (ITQ) Program for 4RST Atlantic halibut for the Gaspé Peninsula fixed gear fleet of less than 13.71 m – Others Group.

This ITQ Program, developed in partnership between representatives from the Association des capitaines propriétaires de la Gaspésie (ACPG), the Regroupement des pêcheurs professionnels du Nord de la Gaspésie (RPPNG), the Association des crabiers de la zone 17 (ACZ17) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), has been the subject of a consultation with all 42 licence holders in the fleet, who were invited to indicate their position regarding the Program. As a result of this consultation, 39 licence holders expressed their position, representing a participation rate of 92.9%. Fleet members supported the ITQ Program in a proportion of 76.9% (30 members), while 23.1% of them (9 members) were against the Program.

Considering the result of the consultation that is highly favorable to the Program, DFO announces the implementation of the 4RST Atlantic Halibut ITQ Program for the Gaspé peninsula fixed gear fleet of less than 13.71 m – Others Group – and of its management rules as of today.

Eligible licence holders of the fleet are now authorized to proceed to permanent or temporary quota transfers, in accordance with the terms of the ITQ Program management rules, which were sent to them as part of the consultation on the Program.

Please note that exceptionally in 2021, eligible licence holders are allowed to temporarily transfer up to 100% of their Atlantic halibut ITQs. On every fishing expedition, each licence holder must carry with them documents attesting to the quantities of Atlantic halibut that they have transferred or received by transfer.

Other management measures for the Atlantic halibut fishery will be specified shortly in a separate Notice to fish harvesters, as well as in the 4RST Atlantic Halibut Conservation harvesting plan for the Gaspé fixed gear fleet of less than 13.71 m – Others Group – for the 2021 season.

For further information, please contact:

Resource management

Gaspé – Lower St. Lawrence area

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

418-368-5559 / Toll free 1-877-898-5559

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) - Information for industry

Canadian fisheries and aquaculture sectors provide the world with sustainably-sourced, high quality, high value, fish and seafood.

Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard is committed to supporting our fisheries and aquaculture industry during these difficult times. The Government of Canada is taking the necessary steps to ensure that you can continue to operate safely and effectively and we will continue to keep you informed of the latest developments.

For additional information

Please visit our website at the following address: Quebec Region