The Prince Albert Grand Council is seeking clarity from the federal government on a compensation package for the commercial fishing industry.
Chief Brian Hardlotte said there is concern that the $62.5 million aid package for fish and seafood processors to address complications associated with COVID-19 may not be directed at inland fisheries particularly in Northern Saskatchewan.
“We are also experiencing how the supply chains that would have taken the fish from boat to market no longer exist in a stable and dependable way, and this aid package should have also included inland fisheries in northern Saskatchewan that have contributed millions to the Saskatchewan economy. There is still a demand for our products but most of the focus has been on food that has a long shelf life, and this has effectively shut down our industry,” explained Hardlotte.
“We are concerned that the federal announcement does not address the distinction between oceanic and inland fishers. We not only need to receive financial support to look after our families, but we also need to restart our industry, so we are asking for similar funding or be identified as an industry eligible for a portion of the aid package.”
Yet as for northern fishers, the Vice President of the Saskatchewan Cooperative Fisheries Limited is advocating for expanded employment insurance benefits.
“With the closure of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation plant and the collapse of the fish market in Saskatchewan, northern fisheries need a year’s extension on their EI benefits. The fishing industry falls under seasonal self-employment, and therefore an extension of twelve months on the fishers’ EI is more appropriate than the provision of the CERB, since it would ensure fishers would receive an amount they are accustomed to through EI during the off-season,” said John Beatty.
“A capital investment is also required to upgrade their local plants, docks and ice sheds, not only to store fish but to provide fresh fish to their communities. This could be done during COVID-19’s closure of the fishing industry and preparations came be made now for when fishing resumes, including improvements, such as a local co-op.”
Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Chief Bobby Cameron said it’s important that the industry and the families dependant on dishing get the support they need during the pandemic.