The provincial government is inviting Lake Winnipeg commercial fishers to the table to discuss the future of their industry, signalling a collaborative approach to working with fishers.
A spokesperson for the department of economic development, investment, trade and natural resources said the government wants to hear directly from commercial fishers about their “interests and solutions” for the future of the fishery.
Sustainability of fish populations and new opportunities for growth in communities engaged in commercial fishing will be among the topics discussed.
“The minister [Jamie Moses] is committed to continued collaboration with the commercial fishing industry to ensure the sustainable management of fisheries, now and for future generations,” said the spokesperson. “The province recognizes the value that commercial fishing brings to communities and the economy across Manitoba. The government is committed to collaborating with the industry on opportunities for growth and maximizing benefits for local commercial fishing communities while ensuring the long-term sustainability of fish populations.”
Lake Winnipeg is polluted from agricultural runoff, municipal wastewater and regular raw sewage spills, among other pollutants, but that will not be a focus of the discussion.
“At this time, water quality concerns are not part of the agenda for the forums,” said the spokesperson.
The first meeting will be held in Scanterbury on Tuesday, April 30 from 1-3 p.m. at the Private Tom Chief Memorial Hall, across from the South Beach Casino.
The second meeting will be held in Gimli on Wednesday, May 1 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Lakeview Gimli Resort in meeting rooms A and B.
To attend the meetings, commercial fishers can register (before April 23) by emailing: fish@gov.mb.ca
