Where N.L. parties stand on fisheries and ocean priorities

The ocean and fisheries remain fundamental to Newfoundland and Labrador’s identity and economy. Seasplainer asked party leaders how they would navigate federal jurisdiction to advocate for the province’s fishing and coastal communities, and what provincial tools they would deploy to support sustainable fisheries and coastal livelihoods.

Seasplainer asked each party leader:

1. While fisheries and oceans fall under federal jurisdiction, what role should the province play in shaping ocean and fisheries policy, and what specific priorities would your government advocate for with Ottawa?

2. What provincial tools—such as coastal zone management, aquaculture regulation, or support programs—would your government use to support sustainable fisheries, healthy oceans, and coastal communities?

All three major parties responded, each emphasizing the need for a stronger provincial voice in fisheries management, though their approaches differ in tone and specificity. Seasplainer will provide deeper analysis of these positions and their implications for the province’s fishing communities next week.

For now, here’s what we heard (presented in the order of receipt). 

New Democratic Party (NDP) Leader Jim Dinn

While fisheries and oceans fall under federal jurisdiction, what role should the province play in shaping ocean and fisheries policy, and what specific priorities would your government advocate for with Ottawa?

While our constitution gives Ottawa jurisdiction over fisheries and oceans, the provincial government still has many vital roles to play in this sphere. Some tend to forget that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is responsible for the fisheries of many provinces, and not just our own. That means our specific priorities and concerns can sometimes get lost in the sea of voices from across the country, each with different goals and different interests to protect.

The provincial government must be a loud and vocal defender of the interests of our fisheries. We need to be a voice for the fish harvesters and plant workers on the ground, and for local organizations and groups in any conversations with Ottawa. An NL NDP government will seek to act as a united front with workers in the fisheries and ensure that any decisions affecting our industry incorporate our points of view and reflect our specific needs.

One particular area where we would advocate more in our dealings with DFO is in research. We believe that the best results only come from the best decisions, and these can only be made by using plenty of good data. We would advocate for more and better research in fish stocks and the environment offshore, so we know how both fluctuate from year to year. This would allow us to make more informed decisions about stocks and quotas, and increase public trust in the wisdom of those decisions. An NL NDP government would partner with DFO to find ways we might be able to assist in those efforts.

What provincial tools—such as coastal zone management, aquaculture regulation, or support programs—would your government use to support sustainable fisheries, healthy oceans, and coastal communities?

An NL NDP government would use any and every tool at its disposal to ensure that our fisheries are sustainable and thriving. New Democrats want to safeguard our fisheries and the vast ecosystem that sustains them. We believe in striking a sustainable approach that works for fish harvesters while protecting the environment. That means striking a balance that ensures sound stewardship of resources, to protect the ocean and marine environment, including fish stocks, so that they may be enjoyed by generations to come. Before taking any action, however, we would consult thoroughly with those people, communities, and industries affected and incorporate their interests and concerns as much as possible into any decision.

Progressive Conservative (PC) Party Leader Tony Wakeham

While fisheries and oceans fall under federal jurisdiction, what role should the province play in shaping ocean and fisheries policy, and what specific priorities would your government advocate for with Ottawa?

While Ottawa has jurisdiction over the fishery, a Wakeham PC government will demand an equal voice in decision-making. Our fishery is too important to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to be dictated by Ottawa alone. We will appoint a full-time Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister to stand up for our province and push for joint management. 

What provincial tools—such as coastal zone management, aquaculture regulation, or support programs—would your government use to support sustainable fisheries, healthy oceans, and coastal communities?

We will work in partnership with harvesters and processors, and never make policy changes without ensuring they grow—not hinder—the industry. We will advocate for a fair food fishery for our province, and greater access to new markets, including for seal products. 

At the provincial level, we will support the aquaculture industry with a strong regulatory framework that balances environmental protection with sustainable growth. And we will stand against federal overreach, including the proposed marine protected area on the South Coast, which threatens the future of local aquaculture and coastal communities

Liberal Party Leader John Hogan

While fisheries and oceans fall under federal jurisdiction, what role should the province play in shaping ocean and fisheries policy, and what specific priorities would your government advocate for with Ottawa?

Our Liberal government has been advocating to the Federal Government for joint management of our fishery. Our province should have a direct say in decisions that affect our resources. 

A re-elected Liberal government will continue to strongly advocate for joint management of our fisheries resources and will meet with Prime Minister Carney and the Federal Minister of Fisheries on this issue to emphasize the need for immediate action on this position. 

What provincial tools—such as coastal zone management, aquaculture regulation, or support programs—would your government use to support sustainable fisheries, healthy oceans, and coastal communities?

Ensuring that our fishery, oceans and coastal communities are sustainable is a priority. A re-elected liberal government will use all tools at its disposal, including engagement and consultation with industry stakeholders, advocacy to the Federal Government, and review of relevant legislation and Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture programs.

What priorities would you like to see the next provincial government pursue for the ocean and fisheries? Share your thoughts with us by email at seasplainer@theindependent.ca.