More consultation needed on Bill C-45 says MP

Now is a particularly important time for Nova Scotia fishermen. The Conservative government has tabled a bill to modernize Canada's Fisheries Act. Bill C-45 will replace the current 138-year old Act with updated, modern legislation that will govern both commercial and recreational fishing throughout the country.

I agree that the century-old act should be modernized – and that we must ensure the sustainable development of Canada’s waters within a more effective, transparent and accountable legal framework. However, if fishermen are not convinced that the new legislation is an improvement for the industry, I will not be supporting it.

The Conservative government clearly stated that the development of a new Fisheries Act was to be a collaborative process, undertaken in co-operation with fishers, provinces and territories, Aboriginal groups and other Canadians. Yet, the Liberal Party has consulted stakeholders across the country and found that there was not an adequate level of consultation prior to tabling the legislation.

Fishing organizations have requested more time to study the effects of the bill and the provinces' response has been lukewarm. Furthermore, C-45 fails to address the long-standing issues of Owner-Operator and Fleet Separation.

Given the significant impact of this legislation, Liberal Members proposed that the bill be sent to committee before Second Reading to allow for more extensive consultation and substantial revision. As such, we have proposed a Hoist Amendment to postpone the vote for six months.

While there is a general consensus that a new Fisheries Act is needed, a bill of this magnitude requires an effective public engagement process and significant input from stakeholders. I would like to see more discussion between fishermen and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to assure them that their concerns have been addressed and that they are getting the best deal.

If you have any comments or concerns on this issue, please contact my office.

Robert Thibault,

West Nova MP