Nunavut Receives Full 1,500 Tonne Turbot Increase
News Release
For Immediate Release
Nunavut Receives Full 1,500 Tonne Turbot Increase
IQALUIT, Nunavut (November 15, 2013) – The Government of Nunavut (GN) welcomes news that the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for Greenland Halibut (turbot) in Division 0A, off the northeast coast of Baffin Island, has been increased from 6,500 tonnes to 8,000 tonnes for 2014. The 1,500 tonne increase will be given entirely to Nunavut fishers.
"We are extremely pleased that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has provided Nunavut with 100 per cent of the turbot increase in Division 0A," said the Honorable James Arreak, Minister of Environment. "This is a substantial increase and Nunavut will continue to benefit from this important and nearby resource."
In June 2013, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization’s (NAFO) Scientific Council provided advice on the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for turbot in both Division 0A and 0B, which is located immediately below Division 0A. Based on positive survey results and a relatively small amount of harvest, an increase of 1,500 tonnes was recommended for Division 0A for 2014.
As the only neighbouring jurisdiction fishing in Division 0A, Nunavut will continue to maintain 100 per cent of the allocation. However, in Division 0B, Nunavut remains a minority shareholder, with 2,850 tonnes of the 7,000 tonne total.
"Although we are very pleased that the current increase will bring Nunavut close to 73 per cent of our turbot resources, we remain committed to improving our share of the 0B fishery and increasing our overall share to a more equitable 85-90 per cent," said Minister Arreak.
The GN will continue to work with its numerous partners, including the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, to ensure that Nunavummiut benefit from our abundant fisheries.
Media Contact:
Tyler Ross
A/ Manager Communications
Department of Environment
867-975-7720