The provincial government is holding a Lake Winnipeg commercial fishers’ summit in Selkirk in a few weeks. The summit aims to unite the lake’s north and south basin fishers and provide them with an opportunity to share their vision of the future of their fishery.
Natural resources Indigenous futures minister Ian Bushie said in an April 17 news release that the summit will address the long-term viability and success of the province’s freshwater fishery.
“It’s been many years since commercial fishers have had a seat at the table when it comes to … deciding how best to advance the future of the freshwater fish sector in Manitoba,” said Bushie. “Our goal is to bring commercial fishers into the decision-making process and have a say in the future of their industry. We hope that fishers from across the province will attend this summit and share their vision of the future.”
Bushie said the commercial fishery contributes about $100 million annually to Manitoba’s economy, and the voices of commercial fishers are integral to its success.
“It is imperative that fishers are part of the conversations that involve their industry and livelihoods,” said the minister. “We want to make sure this industry grows and prospers, creating rural jobs and vibrant communities for the next 100 years.”
The upcoming summit is a continuation of a series of forums that were held last April for people from communities around Lake Winnipeg, says the news release.
The summit will be held in Selkirk (location TBA) on Friday, May 9. To register, email: fish@gov.mb.ca
