Premier Tim Houston wants illegal lobster fishing in St. Mary’s Bay to stop.
In the legislature, Houston said southwest Nova Scotia is experiencing arson, threats and violence connected to illegal harvesters.
He says poachers are taking advantage of a lack of enforcement by federal fisheries officers.
“The federal Liberal government has been warned for years about the risks and dangers of illegal activities in the fisheries sector, but has stubbornly refused to prioritize enforcement for the safety of our communities, and the sustainability of our most valuable resource,” said Houston.
Houston called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to increase enforcement to restore the rule of law and peace of mind for residents.
Some DFO officers are refusing to work in the field, citing safety concerns.
The department says they’re investigating all reports of unsafe working conditions, and are working to minimize operational impacts.
The federal Liberals have been warned repeatedly of the risk and dangers of the illegal activities in the fisheries, but they’ve refused to act. Today the Legislature unanimously condemned Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s inaction and called for immediate enforcement measures. pic.twitter.com/tlB5i5ypFq
— Tim Houston (@TimHoustonNS) September 6, 2024
