Fishery groups and academics warn DFO cuts will mean less scientific research

Published on May 28, 2012; Published on May 28, 2012
The Canadian Press

Topics :: Department of Fisheries and Oceans.Maria Recchia , Association in New Brunswick , FREDERICTON , Fundy North Fishermen

FREDERICTON — Fisheries groups and academics are sounding a warning over federal government cuts to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

Maria Recchia, executive director of the Fundy North Fishermen’s Association in New Brunswick, says every government scientist who has worked on the impact of aquaculture pesticides on the marine ecosystem and the fishery are slated to be laid off or transferred.

She calls the situation “scary.”

Pam Parker of the Atlantic Fish Farmers Association says the industry will have to rely on private institutions and academics because scientific work still needs to be done.

Erin Filliter, a spokeswoman for Fisheries and Oceans Minister Keith Ashfield, says the cuts are an effort to save $79.3 million over three years.

She says an advisory group will be formed to get advice on the biological effects of contaminants and pesticides.

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