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Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO) - Ministerial Appearance on Mandate and Priorities 2025

Table of contents

A - Opening remarks

Good morning.

Before I begin I want to say what an honour it was to be reappointed as Minister of Fisheries, and have a chance to lead a department with such a profound economic, environmental, and cultural importance to Canadians, our country, and the world.

Mr. Chair, as you know our government is charting a bold path to transform the economy, strengthen prosperity, unify our nation, and safeguard our sovereignty.

I was proud to join the Prime Minister in St. John's last month for the announcement of the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, which will help businesses throughout Atlantic Canada - including in the seafood sector - deal with the impacts of tariffs.

And I also want to highlight that we are already making significant progress on DFO's role in the government-wide effort to eliminate inefficient red tape. This work will continue as we simplify processes, clarify rules, and reduce the administrative burden for the seafood industry and all Canadians.

Mr. Chair, I travelled the country this summer, meeting with harvesters, community members, and stakeholders from across the sector. I learned a lot at these meetings about the pressing issues facing Canada's fisheries and coastal communities.

These meetings have helped to inform my own priorities, and I'd like to highlight some of these this morning.

The first is economic prosperity. As Minister, I am committed to driving economic growth in coastal, rural, and Indigenous communities. I want to make sure that the benefits of fishing go to the people who do the fishing, and to people in their communities.

By collaborating with provinces, territories, Indigenous partners, industry, and stakeholders, we can grow Canada's blue economy in ways that are economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable.

In June, for example, I announced an increase to the total allowable catch for Northern cod, based on input from partners and the latest scientific data.

This is good news for coastal communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. It takes a responsible path toward economic prosperity for harvesters and coastal communities.

Industry stakeholders have told me clearly about how vital trade and exports are to the health of Canada's fish and seafood industry. That's why I will work with my provincial counterparts to renew fisheries funds in Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and British Columbia, while also launching a new Arctic Fisheries Fund. These funds will help the industry innovate, access new markets, and strengthen long-term success.

Strategic investments in small craft harbours will also be a priority, as they are essential to the economic vitality of many fishing communities.

Further, our government is committed to building a unified and strong Canadian economy by leveraging our natural and human resources—including three oceans and one-fifth of the world's freshwater.

Canada's greatest strength remains its people: highly skilled, educated, innovative, and diverse. By creating the right opportunities and support systems, we can become the most prosperous country in the world.

To that end, I will work with Cabinet colleagues to advance major infrastructure projects quickly, safely, and responsibly through the Major Projects Office. I'll also advocate for policies that support safe shipping corridors and maintain strong environmental protections as we grow our economy.

Environmental stewardship is a key part of my mandate. I will work with partners to implement the Global Biodiversity Framework and ratify the High Seas Treaty. Strategic investments will also help coastal, rural, and Indigenous communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Other environmental priorities include protecting species at risk and their habitats, addressing aquatic invasive species, preventing ghost gear, advancing sustainable aquaculture, and fostering innovation.

This also includes supporting fishery officers in enforcement and education. We have heard loud and clear that people want us to make sure we are enforcing the rules. That we are holding everyone accountable and when someone is fishing against the rules that there are consequences.

Of course underpinning all of this is a strong commitment to science and evidence-based decision making.

I am also committed to building respectful and meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples to support economic reconciliation and environmental stewardship. Conservation efforts must align with reconciliation and treaty obligations.

I will work with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to advance their rights using a distinctions-based approach. This includes supporting Indigenous-led processes for self-determination and co-managing our oceans and aquatic resources through treaty and self-government agreements.

I had informative and productive meetings with members of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities this summer, and I was also happy to meet with the leaders of some of the national Indigenous organizations last month in Iqaluit, prior to the annual meeting of Canadian fisheries and agriculture ministers.

In emerging Northern fisheries, I will ensure Indigenous rights are respected, traditional knowledge informs decision-making, and community priorities are reflected in infrastructure development.

This work aligns with our government's commitment to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and its Action Plan.

Mr. Chair, I've outlined some of the key priorities that will guide my work in the months and years ahead.

At a time when Canadians face uncertainty—over jobs, inflation, trade, climate change, and global conflict—our government has an ambitious plan to make Canada the strongest economy in the G7.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is central to this vision. By working together, we can protect our harvesters and fisheries, promote sustainable economic growth, and ensure our marine ecosystems remain healthy and vibrant for generations.

These are not just goals—they are the path to a stronger, more prosperous Canada. I look forward to working with all of you to fulfill this mandate.

Thank you.

B - Departmental overview

B1 - Departmental Financial Outlook

Question 1: To meet the ongoing Comprehensive Expenditure Review target of 15 per cent, what is the financial impact to the Department, in dollars?

Question 2: What will be the impact on programs, services to Canadians and the workforce?

Question 3: How much has been transferred to the Department of National Defense for the Canadian Coast Guard?

Background

Approved by Parliament, the Main Estimates list the resources required by individual departments and agencies for the upcoming fiscal year in order to deliver the programs for which they are responsible.

The Supply Bill, which provides departments with their Full Supply once voted upon, received Royal Assent on June 26, 2025.

The 2025-26 Main Estimates present a total increase of $1,367.4M from 2024-25, which is mainly attributed to:

This increase will be partially offset by the following reductions:

The Comprehensive Expenditure Review exercise is an opportunity to reinvest in areas aligned with government priorities and realign resources in key areas, while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

B2 - Portfolio Shift to Strengthen the Canadian Coast Guard's Security Role

Background

In response to growing and increasingly complex threats to Canadian maritime security, the Government of Canada is advancing a new security role for the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG).

In June 2025, the Prime Minister announced his intent to expand CCG's reach, mandate, and capabilities, including its integration into NATO defence frameworks to strengthen sovereignty and maritime surveillance.

Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, proposes amendments to the Oceans Act to formally expand CCG's mandate to include security-related activities, with a particular focus on remote and Arctic regions.

CCG will remain a Special Operating Agency under the Department of National Defence (DND) —a civilian agency committed to its safety services and programs. The transition to DND does not seek enforcement nor interdiction powers and is not intended to turn CCG into a military or law enforcement agency. Enforcement functions would continue to be retained by federal enforcement and security partners with existing responsibility.

The transition is designed to foster synergies between CCG and DND, while preserving CCG's civilian identity and operational independence.

CCG has engaged positively with both DND and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and continues to collaborate with colleagues across departments to support a smooth transition. Dedicated resources within CCG, DND, and DFO are working closely to oversee the transition in collaboration with enabling partners, such as Shared Services Canada.

B3 - Impact on Fisheries and Oceans Canada due to the Proposed Expanded Role of the Canadian Coast Guard to Include a Security Mandate (Bill C-2)

Question 1: How will the Coast Guard balance its expanded security mandate with its existing responsibilities?

Background

In response to growing and increasingly complex threats to Canadian maritime security, the Government of Canada is advancing a new security role for the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG).

Currently, under the Oceans Act, CCG has the mandate to deliver eight core missions: icebreaking, search and rescue, environmental response, response to wrecked, abandoned or hazardous ships, channel maintenance, aids to navigation, marine communications and traffic services, and support to other Government of Canada departments and agencies by providing ships, aircraft, and other marine services. In this current context, CCG does not have an explicit security mandate and is therefore unable to dedicate resources and ship time to proactively contribute to security activities, or to collect and share information for the purposes of security.

Security—especially in the Arctic—is an area of growing importance for Canada's allies as melting sea ice opens up new shipping routes and access to untapped natural resources. The United States is taking steps to bolster its maritime capabilities in the Arctic and has called on Canada to strengthen border and maritime security. With a security mandate, CCG will be more aligned with coast guard models of NATO allies and other international partners, including the United Kingdom and Australia.

In June 2025, the Prime Minister announced the intent to expand CCG's reach, mandate, and capabilities, including its integration into NATO defence frameworks to strengthen sovereignty and maritime surveillance.

Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, proposes amendments to the Oceans Act to formally expand CCG's mandate to include security-related activities.

The legislation, introduced as part of an omnibus border security bill by the Minister of Public Safety on June 3, 2025, is currently at second reading in the House of Commons.

C - Impacts and Supports for the Fish and Seafood Sector

C4 - Fisheries Funds

Question 1: What is the Government's long-term plan for the fish funds?

Question 2: How is the Department supporting fisheries impacted by tariffs?

Background

The regional fisheries funds are the flagship federal-provincial program to support Canada's sustainable seafood sector. The Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF), the Quebec Fisheries Fund (QFF) and the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund (BCSRIF) are delivered by the Government of Canada with a 70:30 federal to provincial funding ratio.

AFF was established with the Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island) with over $400 million over seven years, starting in 2017.

QFF was established in 2018 with $42.8 million over five years.

BCSRIF is providing up to $254.08 million over seven years (2019-2026) to support protection and restoration activities for salmon and priority wild fish stocks.

Funds will be fully allocated to projects this year and program expenditures are planned to sunset on March 31, 2026.

On March 20, 2025, China, Canada's second largest seafood market (with exports valued at $1.3 billion in 2024), imposed a 25 per cent tariff on exports of 49 aquatic species in retaliation for levies Canada introduced in October 2024 on Chinese-made electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum.

Although seafood is currently not subject to United States (U.S.) tariffs as they are compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), they could become subject to U.S. tariffs of up to 35 per cent if the U.S. were to exit CUSMA (with six months' notice).

The impacts of both the potential U.S. tariffs and current Chinese tariffs represent significant stressors for the sector, with the two markets representing roughly 84 per cent ($6.8 billion of Canada's $8.1 billion) of fish and seafood exports in 2024.

As currently designed, the Fisheries Funds can mitigate the impact of tariffs by supporting product diversification and innovation, in order to tailor offerings to new markets.

C5 - Tariffs on Canadian Fish and Seafood

Question 1: What progress has Canada made in addressing China's tariffs?

Question 2: What progress has Canada made in addressing U.S. tariffs?

Background

The United States (U.S.) is Canada's largest fish and seafood export market. Canadian goods compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), including harvested fish and seafood, are exempt from U.S. tariffs.

On August 22, 2025, Prime Minister (PM) Carney announced that Canada will remove retaliatory tariffs on certain U.S. origin goods that are covered under CUSMA, following U.S. confirmation that it will not impose tariffs on CUSMA-compliant goods.

China is Canada's second largest export market for fish and seafood. Products subject to this new tariff represent roughly 93 per cent of the value of Canadian fish and seafood exports to China ($1.3 billion in 2024).

As of March 20, 2025, China imposed 25 per cent tariff on select Canadian imports, including crab, shrimp, prawn, clams, lobster, sea cucumber, geoduck (Pacific region only), Greenland halibut products, and herring oils.

On June 5, 2025, PM Carney raised concerns with Premier Li about China's trade measures. They agreed to maintain regular communication and revive the Canada-China Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETC), which last met in 2017. An Economic Partnership Working Group meeting was held on August 8, 2025 in Beijing, and a JETC meeting occurred on

August 26, 2025 in Ottawa.

On June 23, 2025, the dispute settlement body of the World Trade Organization agreed to review additional import duties imposed by China on certain Canadian agricultural and fisheries products.

The Department is working with federal departments, agencies, and through bilateral and joint engagement with industry, provinces and territories, and Indigenous partners, including sharing accurate and timely information on actions and clarifying impacts and supports.

On September 5, 2025, PM Carney announced a comprehensive package of new measures for workers and businesses in sectors most impacted by trade disruptions. Supports that are most relevant to Canadian fish and seafood businesses include: Employment Insurance (EI) measures, the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), increased funding to the AgriMarketing program and Immediate Liquidity Relief. The Government will extend the temporary EI waiver of the one-week waiting period so that workers will receive benefits for the first week of unemployment (investment of $418M over two years). Additionally, the Government will invest $1.6B over five years to temporarily give long-tenured workers 20 extra weeks of income support, up to a maximum of 65 weeks.

The $1B Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), delivered through regional development agencies over three years, includes non-repayable contributions of up to $1M to allow more small and medium-sized enterprises grow, diversify, and innovate. The Government will invest an additional $75M over five years to strengthen Agriculture and Agrifood Canada's AgriMarketing Program, to expand the program into high-growth areas such as Africa, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. To support tariff-impacted sectors, the Government will provide immediate liquidity relief by increasing the Business Development Bank of Canada maximum loan size from $2M to $5M.

C6 - International Market Access and the Blue Economy

Question 1: What is the Department doing to support trade diversification?

Question 2: What is the Department doing to support the sector in meeting the European Union Catch Certification requirements?

Question 3: Is Canada compliant with the United States' Marine Mammal Protection Act to ensure its access to the U.S. market?

Background

International Market Access

Fisheries and Oceans Canada works closely with other departments such as Agriculture and Agrifood Canada, Global Affairs Canada, and the Canada Border Services Agency to support market access for Canadian seafood products.

Industry recognizes the importance of reducing reliance on the American and Chinese markets. Several stakeholders are pushing forward trade diversification, including through activities funded by the AgriMarketing program. Some have called on the Government to increase support for domestic marketing for fish and seafood. The Department—with support from the Trade Commissioner Service—is exploring opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region, European Union, and in the Middle-East—notably in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

European Union (EU) Catch Certification

Catch certification schemes such as the EU's, require all imports of fish and seafood products to be accompanied by a catch certificate, a government-issued attestation that the product originates from legal, reported, and regulated fisheries. The document itself must contain specific information that identifies the source of the product.

The EU's regulation includes the introduction of new key data elements to increase traceability. This means that our industry will need to provide additional information including fishing gear type, additional level of detail on vessels contributing to catches, information on processing plants, storage information, and transport information.

Certain sectors of the fish and seafood industry may be disproportionately impacted by changes to the EU catch certification requirements, as they will be required to submit data related to the harvest of product that they had previously been exempt from providing.

United States (U.S.) Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)

The U.S. MMPA import provisions come into force January 1, 2026. The new rules establish conditions for evaluating a harvesting nation's regulatory program for reducing marine mammal incidental mortality and serious injury during the course of commercial fishing and aquaculture operations.

To maintain U.S. market access in 2026, fish and seafood-harvesting nations must meet or exceed U.S. standards in terms of mitigating marine mammal bycatch. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has confirmed that all Canadian fisheries received comparability findings under the MMPA.

Canada's strong management measures are key to preserving U.S. market access and seafood competitiveness.

C7 - Next Generation of Fish Harvesters

Question 1: What challenges are new entrants facing?

Background

On June 17, 2025, the House Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO) approved a motion to undertake a five meeting study on the need for training and financial support for the next generation of fishers given the challenges they face entering with the high cost of licences and equipment.

The fisheries sector is aging:

The Inshore Regulations codify the Owner Operator, Fleet Separation, and Preserving the Independence of the Inshore Fishery in Canada's Atlantic Fleet policies under a regulatory umbrella. The Inshore Regulations restrict the issuance of licences and require licence holders to personally fish. They prohibit licence holders from transferring the rights and privileges conferred under the licence to any third party; restrict the issuance of inshore licences to licence holders that have not transferred the rights and privileges; and prohibit anyone other than the licence holder from using and controlling the rights and privileges.

There are significant differences in how licensing is conducted on the east and west coasts.

While there are efforts underway exploring the application of Atlantic inshore-style policies on the west coast (e.g., Made-in-British Columbia Owner Operator and Fleet Separation), the current challenges for the next generation of fish harvesters are not uniform across coasts.

C8 - Investing in Small Craft Harbours

Question 1: How does the Small Craft Harbours program prioritize investments in infrastructure?

Question 2: Why are certain busy harbours belonging to Fisheries and Oceans Canada being barricaded, impacting the ability of harvesters to earn a living?

Background

Small craft harbours (SCH) provide key support to the commercial fishing industry. The mandate of the SCH program is to keep the harbours that are critical to the fishing industry open and in good repair.

SCH's ongoing regular budget is approximately $90 million, of which $20 million covers administrative costs.

In April 2024, the Government of Canada announced, as part of Budget 2024, that $463.3 million over three years would be invested in the repair and maintenance of SCHs, including those damaged by Hurricane Fiona, which started in fiscal year 2024-25.

Since 2016, the Government of Canada has announced over $1.4 billion in new funding to support SCHs.

The SCH program is responsible for 939 harbours:

Approximately 90 per cent of the Canadian fish harvest is landed at harbours operated through the SCH program.

Another key objective of the SCH program is to transfer ownership of designated non-core harbours to third parties; particularly those that are not widely used by fishers or that are focused primarily on recreational boating.

D - Fisheries and Aquaculture Management

D9 - Fisheries Decision-Making

Question 1: Who makes decisions?

Question 2: What principles guide the fisheries decision-making process?

Background

The Government of Canada has federal jurisdiction over coastal and inland fisheries, and the Fisheries Act gives the Minister of Fisheries authority over fish harvesting decisions. The Department has international fisheries responsibilities, with more than 20 per cent of Canada's fish stocks managed in cooperation with international counterparts.

The Minister has the authority to determine how much is fished, who gets to fish, and when and how stocks can be fished. Conservation is the first and foremost consideration in decision-making, followed by Indigenous and First Nations treaty rights, legally binding agreements and the orderly management of the fishery. Economic considerations figure in decision-making as well. Decision-making is supported by:

Regional authorities traditionally make routine, less complex decisions (e.g., management measures, TAC, quota transfers, openings and closures) while more complex decisions (e.g., new or deviations from existing policy, discrepancies in science advice and TAC recommendations, politically sensitive issues, and multi-regional fisheries) are typically made by the Minister.

Fisheries management decisions and harvest strategies are designed to promote and maintain fish stocks within the healthy zone. In the cautious zone, decisions and strategies promote stock rebuilding to the healthy zone. In the critical zone, stock growth is promoted and removals are kept to the lowest possible level, and rebuilding plans are required for stocks prescribed under the Fish Stock Provisions.

Collaboration with Indigenous partners is an important aspect of our fisheries decision-making processes and where treaties and reconciliation agreements with First Nations include commitments to collaborative governance, we develop dedicated structures and processes which support the development of recommendations on decisions within the Department's jurisdiction.

D10 - Fish Stock Rebuilding

Question 1: What work has the Department completed to date?

Question 2: What are the Department's plans moving forward to advance the Fish Stocks Provisions?

Background

In 2009, the Department introduced its Precautionary Approach Policy indicating that it would develop rebuilding plans for depleted major fish stocks. In the years that followed, the overall progress to develop plans for depleted fish stocks was slow, with plans developed for some stocks and not for others.

Since 2022, there has been a legal requirement to develop rebuilding plans within 24 months for major stocks prescribed to the Fish Stocks Provisions that become depleted. The introduction of this legal requirement has resulted in an increase in the pace of the development of rebuilding plans for depleted fish stocks.

Of the 30 stocks prescribed to the Fish Stocks Provisions in the first batch in 2022, 14 are depleted—that is, they are below their Limit Reference Point in the critical zone. Since 2022, rebuilding plans have been developed for 11 of the 14 stocks in the critical zone and the remaining three plans (for the three Northern shrimp in the Quebec Region) are expected to be finalized in October 2025.

Since 2017, over $158 million has been invested to support work to meet the requirements of Fisheries Act's Fish Stocks Provisions for prescribed fish stocks. These requirements include developing rebuilding plans for depleted fish stocks and applying measures to maintain fish stocks at sustainable levels. This funding included $33 million—announced in Budget 2024—to further support the science work needed to implement the Fish Stocks Provisions, such as developing stock reference points, collecting data on stock health, conducting stock status assessments, and producing science advice to develop rebuilding plans.

D11 - Fisheries Act Review

Question 1: Will the Department implement recommendations from the Committee's report?

Background

The Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO) launched its comprehensive review of the Fisheries Act in the previous Parliament in September 2024. FOPO adopted a motion in June 2025 to resume the study and produce a report with a request for a Government Response.

Recommendations to date

The fishing industry proposed to include harvester knowledge as a mandatory consideration for the Minister's decision-making and to replace the "absolute discretion" of the Minister with a transparent "shared decision-making" for fishery leases and licences.

Other industries (mining, energy, forestry, and agriculture) proposed to restore the focus of the Act to sustaining the productive capacity of fisheries, and to include socio-economic considerations in the Minister's decision-making.

Environmental non-governmental organizations suggested the inclusion of climate change considerations, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, and western-based science as part of decision-making, more protections for fish stocks, and the creation of an administrative monetary penalty regime.

Indigenous partners and organizations requested further implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and recognition of Inherent and Treaty-protected rights-based fisheries. They advocated for the inclusion of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in decision-making.

Implementation of 2019 Fisheries Act changes

Over $500 million has been invested to support the implementation of the updated fish and fish habitat provisions of the Fisheries Act. This includes funding for the Indigenous Habitat Participation Program (IHPP), which supports Indigenous involvement in consultations, policy development, regulatory initiatives, and capacity-building projects.

D12 - Fisheries Act Enforcement

Question 1: What are the details of a certain case before the courts?

Question 2: What are the enforcement efforts in relation to moderate livelihood fisheries?

Background

Conservation and Protection (C&P) is the enforcement branch within the Department.

Fishery Officers (FOs) are designated under the Fisheries Act and are authorized to enforce that Act and the Coastal Fisheries Protection Act.

FOs are designated as enforcement officers under the Oceans Act and the Species at Risk Act, and as such, they have enforcement responsibilities under these Acts.

FOs operate in a complex environment, particularly with respect to their enforcement role and recognition of Indigenous and treaty rights, while at the same time performing their duties to enforce fisheries legislation. Increasingly, they must navigate the enforcement of the law in an environment where there is often profound disagreement around the scope of these rights.

Violations of a criminal nature such as theft, destruction of property, or acts of violence are beyond the scope of C&P's authorities and are therefore referred to the police of local jurisdiction.

D13 - Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

Question 1: What enforcement mechanisms does Canada use to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing?

Question 2: How is Canada supporting international partners and what investments are being made?

Question 3: Do you have an example of a mission that led to concrete results?

Background

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is a broad term for fishing activities which are conducted in contravention of, or undermine national or international fishing regulations, and can concern all aspects and stages of fishing and the use of fisheries resources. While difficult to quantify, there is common agreement that unreported catch has a global value reaching billions of dollars each year. Canada is engaged in a number of efforts to combat IUU fishing, which are organized under three pillars of governance, enforcement, and partnerships.

Governance Efforts

Canada is active in seven Regional Fisheries Management Organizations where it actively participates in the negotiation of binding and enforceable measures to combat IUU fishing by sustainably managing fish stocks, conserving ocean resources, and strengthening the rules-based international order through transparency, improved monitoring, control, surveillance, and enforcement. These include efforts to strengthen shark management, prohibit shark finning, and better manage activities such as transshipment.

Enforcement Efforts

Canada is a recognized leader in efforts to improve global compliance with international rules through robust fisheries monitoring, control, surveillance, and enforcement practices. Canada possesses one of the world's largest dedicated fisheries enforcement agencies via Fisheries and Oceans Canada's (DFO) Conservation & Protection Directorate. Fishery Officers conduct inspection and enforcement operations on the high seas to detect and deter IUU fishing activity.

Canada participates in cooperative, multinational fisheries enforcement operations, including under Operation North Pacific Guard (Op NPG), working with partner nations to conduct high seas fisheries compliance inspections of high seas fleets on the water, air, and from space using remote sensing satellites. In 2025, Op NPG was the first to have enforcement officers from four nations (Canada, the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea) on a single ship. Op NPG is funded under the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative until FY 2025-26.

Partnership Efforts

In November 2022, Canada announced its Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), a comprehensive framework for Canada's engagement in the region over the next decade. Under the IPS, DFO established the Shared Ocean Fund (SOF), investing over $80 million to increase maritime cooperation, support healthy marine ecosystems, and combat IUU fishing.

Activities under the SOF include expanding support for various states (such as the Philippines and Taiwan) to access our Dark Vessel Detection surveillance platform to track illegal fishing vessels, support maritime security efforts within sovereign waters, and support international partners in strengthening their fisheries management and compliance through training and capacity-building.

In 2022, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom launched the IUU Fishing Action Alliance (IUU-AA) to drive global efforts to address IUU fishing through greater transparency, the use of technology, and support for State and non-State partnerships. Member countries include Canada, Chile, the European Union, France on behalf of its overseas territories, Ghana, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Canada is the current chair of the IUU-AA from 2024 to 2026, and has hosted several virtual and in-person events to advance the work of the group.

D14 - Enforcing Inshore Regulations (Owner Operator)

Question 1: What are you doing to prevent processors from having controlling agreements over licence holders?

Question 2: What has your Department done to date to implement the inshore regulations?

Question 3: What is your Department doing to enforce the inshore regulations?

Background

In 2021, the "Inshore Regulations" enshrined key Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) policies such as Owner Operator, Fleet Separation, and Preserving the Independence of the Inshore Fleet in Canada's Atlantic fisheries into regulations.

The intent was to a) respond to stakeholder concerns (inshore harvesters, fleets and industry associations) that "controlling agreements were compromising licence holders' ability to make independent decisions," and b) strengthen DFO's enforcement measures. These regulations restrict the issuance of licences to eligible individuals, their estate, their wholly-owned companies, or to organizations that have been issued an allocation of fish to catch; and require that licence holders or operators named in the licence personally carry out the activities authorized under the licence.

The inshore regulations are applied through licensing administrative review processes and through Conservation and Protection enforcement measures. Licensing concentrates its effort on determining the eligibility of licence holders according to the principle that they cannot transfer the rights and privileges associated with their licence(s) to a third party. The enforcement aspect of the regulations allows DFO to prosecute both licence holders and third parties.

A well-defined administrative review process is in place. DFO requires all licence holders to self-declare via the National Online Licensing System that they have not transferred any of their rights and privileges when they pay their licence fee. Confirmation of eligibility is done using three kinds of reviews:

  1. Reissuances: all industry requests to reissue (commonly referred to as ‘‘transfer') a licence are reviewed;
  2. Targeted: DFO-initiated review in response to complaints or information about potential non-compliance by a specific licence holder; and
  3. Non-Targeted: DFO-initiated review when a fishery of interest is identified, and some fishers within that fleet are randomly selected for review.

In all targeted and non-targeted reviews, and in reissuance cases as needed, a questionnaire is sent to the applicant requiring all relevant documents and information be provided to DFO.

A national Task Team and executive oversight is in place to support the review of complex cases and to ensure consistency in decision-making across regions.

D15 - Northern Cod Management Plan 2025-26

Question 1: Why was the Northern cod quota more than doubled in the second year after re-opening the fishery?

Question 2: Why were there no changes to the Recreational Groundfish Fishery this season?

Question 3: Why was there a Special Allocation of Northern cod in 2024 and 2025 to the NunatuKavut Community Council?

Background

The commercial fishery for 2J3KL Northern cod re-opened in 2024 with a total allowable catch (TAC) of 18,000 tonnes (t) following a 32-year moratorium.

This TAC was fully utilized by all fleets in 2024. The landed value of this fishery was $37.5 million.

A full stock assessment in March 2025 determined the stock to be at two times the Limit Reference Point (LRP) compared to 1.2 times the LRP in 2024. While the trend in the Spawning Stock Biomass has remained relatively stable since 2017, we now understand that the stock was in a healthier state in previous years than we understood.

While the stock is projected to decline in the short term under all scenarios assessed, including from no catch to double the 2024 catch level, there is a high probability (greater than 96 per cent) that the stock will remain above the LRP in 2026.

In April 2025, the Department convened the 2+3KLMNO Groundfish Advisory Committee to seek perspectives on a 2025 management approach. Perspectives were diverse, with TAC recommendations ranging from 8,750 t to 50,000 t. Several stakeholders proposed revisions to the 2024 allocation regime.

Following this consultation, the TAC was increased from 18,000 t in 2024-25 to 38,000 t for 2025-26. This approach considers the significant shift in our understanding of stock status since the 2024 management decision, as well as the very high probability that the stock will remain above the LRP in 2026.

This stock is subject to the Fish Stocks Provisions under the Fisheries Act. The recommended TAC and associated management measures are consistent with the obligations of subsection 6.1(1) of the Act and DFO's supporting guidelines.

Many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have been vocal in expressing their criticism of the current management measures in the Recreational Groundfish Fishery, which primarily targets Atlantic cod. The main criticism remains that the fishery is only open primarily on weekends with concern also expressed on the personal limit and boat limit. In response, DFO is launching a public opinion survey in October to highlight the differences in the Province's three distinct cod populations and to gather feedback from the public that will inform the 2026 management decision.

D16 - Elver Fishery and Trade in Canada

Question 1: What was the status of elver enforcement this season?

Question 2: How have you worked with the provinces?

Question 3: Some First Nations publicly reported they would not be fishing under Fisheries and Oceans Canada-issued licences nor use the new traceability system. What is your response to this?

Question 4: Why has the Department not changed the total allowable catch in the fishery since 2005?

Question 5: American eel has been under review by the Department to provide advice on the potential listing under the Species at Risk Act. What is the status?

Question 6: The European Union has submitted a proposal to list all eels species, internationally. It will be voted on this November at the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. What does this mean for Canada?

Background

Elver Fishing, Possession and Export

The elver fishery was closed early in 2023 and remained closed in 2024 due to high levels of unauthorized fishing that resulted in risks to conservation and safety. The 2025 season opening included several key changes: reallocation of 50 per cent of the total allowable catch in the fishery to increase First Nation participation, updates to licence conditions in the fishery, and two new types of licences (possession and export), which include the requirement to report through a new elver monitoring and traceability system. Unauthorized fishing did continue in 2025; however, an increase in compliance and a more orderly fishery was observed.

Species at Risk Act (SARA)

In 2015-2016, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) consulted on the possible listing of American eel under SARA and a check-in to confirm what was heard during those consultations was conducted in 2024. A decision to add or not add a species to Schedule 1 of SARA considers the outcomes of consultations, scientific advice, socio-economic impacts, and alternative management options. The decision process has taken time due to many factors, including the wide geographic range and habitats occupied by American eel in Canada, and extensive engagement with a wide range of Indigenous partners and stakeholders who could potentially be impacted by a decision on listing.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) The next CITES Conference of the Parties will be held in late November 2025. The European Union has proposed listing eels, including the American eel, under Appendix II of the convention, which if passed, will require traded eels to be accompanied by export permits from host countries. DFO and Environment and Climate Change Canada are considering feedback from consultations and engagement and will propose an official Government position on this proposal.

D17 - Striped Bass Abundance in the Miramichi River

Question 1: What actions has the Department taken to manage and support the striped bass fishery in the Gulf Region?

Question 2: How is the Department managing striped bass bycatch?

Background

Striped bass (Morone saxatilis) in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence is an anadromous fish that spawns exclusively in the Northwest Miramichi River in New Brunswick.

The southern Gulf of St. Lawrence population of striped bass have rebounded from critically low levels in the 1990s, which led to the closure of the commercial fishery in 1996, and the closure of the recreational and food, social and ceremonial fishery in 2000.

A recent update of stock status indicators was conducted in 2024 under the Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat. Striped bass abundance continues to fluctuate, and the population was still in the cautious zone of the Precautionary Approach Framework in both 2023 and 2024. It only reached the Healthy Zone once in 2017.

The Department has been steadily increasing striped bass access in recent years. In 2024, daily bag and possession limits increased from three to four in the recreational fishery. The communal commercial fishery, established in 2018, saw its allocation increase from 50,000 to 175,000 fish for the 2025 season. A pilot project for the lobster fishery to retain striped bass bycatch was conducted in 2024 and 2025.

The Eastern New Brunswick gaspereau fish harvesters raised concerns through the Maritime Fishermen Union about the apparent increase in striped bass bycatch in their nets. In late June, a Fisheries Management Order was issued to retain striped bass bycatch of legal size (50-65 cm) in the gaspereau fishery. The Department continues to have discussions with the Maritime Fishermen's Union and Prince Edward Island Fishermen's Association on the management of striped bass.

Recent studies on striped bass and Atlantic salmon interactions in the Miramichi River show that striped bass predation is not the main cause of salmon decline. Although striped bass eat smolts during a short spring overlap, salmon populations are declining throughout their entire range.

D18 - Unit 1 Redfish (Gulf of St. Lawrence)

Question 1: Why was only five per cent of the 60,000 tonne quota landed in 2024?

Question 2: Why is the Department not continuing consultations on allocation sharing?

Background

Redfish Stock Structure and Status

Two species of redfish, Sebastes mentella and Sebastes fasciatus, are managed as one biological stock in two management units: Unit 1 in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Unit 2 in the Laurentian Channel. Unit 1 redfish stocks experienced a major growth in biomass following strong recruitment (new baby fish) events in 2011, 2012, and 2013. However, redfish recruitment is episodic and unpredictable, with no significant new recruitment observed since. As of 2025, S. mentella remains in the healthy zone under the Precautionary Approach framework, while S. fasciatus is likely in the healthy zone but approaching the cautious zone, with some uncertainty. The 2025 stock assessment noted limited growth in fish body size and high natural mortality, with projections indicating a gradual population decline over the next decade, even in the absence of fishing.

Fishery Reopening

After nearly 30 years under a commercial moratorium (1995-2024), the reopening of the Unit 1 Redfish fishery was officially announced on January 26, 2024. A modernized allocation key was introduced to support Indigenous access and participation across fleet sectors. On May 31, 2024, the Department announced a 60,000 t quota and a management plan for the 2024 season, including a temporary allocation sharing framework for 2024 and 2025. Despite the available quota, only about five per cent of the quota was landed in 2024, primarily by the inshore fleet. Stakeholders cited high operating costs, low market value of redfish, and restrictive management measures as barriers to participation. They called for relaxing management measures to support the fishery's development. In 2025, the quota was maintained at 60,000 t for Unit 1 redfish and management measures were relaxed to encourage participation in the fishery.

Conservation Measures

Unit 1 overlaps with five groundfish stocks currently in the critical zone, all subject to rebuilding plans under the Fisheries Act. To protect these vulnerable stocks, the Department monitors fishing activity and bycatch levels closely and enforces strict bycatch limits. In 2024, none of the bycatch caps were reached due to low fishing effort. For 2025, management measures were relaxed to encourage greater participation in the fishery, while maintaining strong monitoring practices to ensure bycatch levels for depleted groundfish stocks remain within established limits.

Allocation Sharing and Future Approach

Broader consultations were originally planned to inform long-term allocation sharing, with implementation anticipated in 2026. However, due to low engagement in earlier consultations and general support for the current model, the Department has decided not to proceed with further consultations at this time. The current allocation sharing model will be maintained with competitive access for Indigenous communities and existing sub-fleet shares for other fleet sectors. Ongoing engagement will continue through the Redfish Advisory Committee, and the Department remains open to revisiting its approach based on future interest.

D19 - Pacific Salmon

Question 1: What results have been achieved through the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative?

Question 2: What is the current status of Yukon salmon and Alaskan interceptions?

Question 3: How are Chinook stocks managed and assessed?

Question 4: What is the status of Fraser River Sockeye salmon?

Question 5: Can an update be provided on the US-Canada Pacific Salmon Treaty?

Background

The Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI) was announced in Budget 2021, with the goal of stemming the severe and ongoing decline of key Pacific salmon stocks on Canada's West Coast and restoring them to a sustainable level for ecosystems and future generations of Canadians. The Government has invested more than $686 million over five years to implement the PSSI.

The PSSI seeks to achieve three key outcomes: 1) restoring vulnerable populations of Pacific salmon and their habitat; 2) supporting sustainable fishing opportunities and reducing impacts on vulnerable stocks; and 3) building capacity and continuing work with partners to achieve better outcomes for Pacific salmon.

PSSI results to date include:

Targeted efforts are being made in the Yukon, including investment in First Nations salmon fishery transition, stewardship and monitoring activities, and integrated rebuilding planning.

As of August 11, 2025, the Department has invested $2.4 million in grants and contributions funding for First Nations partners and other stakeholders in the Yukon.

The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada has assessed 43 populations of Pacific salmon to be at risk (Endangered, Threatened, or of Special concern). These populations are under consideration for listing under the Species at Risk Act.

D20 - West Coast Commercial Fisheries Modernization

Question 1: What personnel resources have been allocated to West Coast Commercial Fisheries Modernization?

Question 2: What progress has been made since FOPO's 2023 report "Foreign Ownership and Corporate Concentration of Fishing Licenses and Quota" and its 2020 report "West Coast Fisheries: Sharing Risks and Benefits"?

If pressed on Foreign Ownership (both coasts):

Background

A Government Response to the 2023 House Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO) report titled "Foreign Ownership and Corporate Concentration of Fishing Licenses and Quota" was published on April 11, 2024. Among the Report's 19 recommendations was a call for foreign ownership limits in fisheries where they are not currently present. As part of the Government Response, the Department committed to engaging stakeholders via the West Coast Commercial Fisheries Modernization (WCCFM), and engaging provincial counterparts through existing federal/provincial fora to discuss concerns related to foreign ownership of the fisheries supply chain under each government's respective jurisdictional responsibility.

The development of a path forward is well underway on topics for which we heard general support (e.g., inclusiveness on advisory boards; more socio-economic data to support decision-making; and transparency of licences and quota holdings).

On more substantive policy matters, such as the potential applicability of Atlantic inshore-style policies on the west coast (e.g., owner operator provisions, fleet separation), the Department heard strongly held divergent views regarding feasibility in the west coast context. Continued in-depth engagement is required with further data and analysis on a fishery-specific basis, to develop comprehensive and robust policy advice that is appropriate given the unique features of west coast fisheries.

D21 - Development of Lobster Fishery in Quebec

Question 1: Why did DFO not prioritize fishers from struggling fleets when issuing licences?

Question 2: How did the Department ensure that additional lobster harvests would not negatively impact commercial fishers already in operation?

Background

In recent years, lobster abundance indicators have generally increased in Quebec, suggesting that there may be potential for additional removals. Warmer waters may play an important role in this increase. However, the lack of knowledge requires a cautious approach.

In this context, in 2024, the Department approved a regional plan for the acquisition of knowledge and development of a lobster fishery in Quebec, which provides for the issuance of exploratory fishing permits in several phases.

The plan aims to develop a lobster fishery in underexploited areas to allow fishermen from other struggling fleets to diversify, to enable the next generation to enter the fishing profession, and to ensure the equitable integration of Indigenous communities into lobster fishing.

The Department consulted with First Nations and the industry in Quebec's three maritime sectors. In light of these consultations, a phased implementation in commercial subareas was developed to minimize the risk associated with adding too many new licenses as early as 2025. The industry expressed a desire to reduce the number of traps per permit in order to increase the number of participants, particularly to support struggling fleets.

A total of 74 exploratory permits were issued in 2025 for the first phase of the plan. Depending on the results, a maximum of 30 additional permits could be added in subsequent years (phases II and III of the plan).

The approach to issuing exploratory fishing licences gives priority to First Nations. The issuance of exploratory licences to non-Indigenous harvesters is based on transparent, objective, and equitable criteria.

The list of struggling fleets considered for licensing was identified in collaboration with the industry. Harvesters who maintained a level of activity despite challenges were prioritized in recognition of their resilience and commitment to the fishery. Contiguity criteria were applied and attention was given to the next generation of fishers.

Harvesters who already held lobster fishing licences or significant snow crab quotas, as well as companies owned by shareholders that are not required to operate their licences themselves, were not eligible.

Preliminary results for 2025 are very encouraging in some sectors. Officials are continuing their analysis and will make recommendations this winter for the 2026 season.

D22 - Atlantic Mackerel and Atlantic Herring

Question 1: What is DFO’s response to reports of high mackerel abundance and predation?

If pressed on Atlantic herring quota decisions:

Background

Atlantic Mackerel

This stock has been in the Critical Zone of the Precautionary Approach (PA) Framework since 2011 and is subject to the Fish Stock Provisions (FSP) of the Fisheries Act, mandating Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to rebuild the stock and promote sustainability.

The commercial and bait fisheries were closed in 2022; however, the bait fishery reopened in 2024.

The 2025 stock assessment found that if the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for mackerel is kept at or below 500 tonnes, there is a high probability (75 per cent) that the spawning stock biomass—a key indicator of the population's health—will be larger in 2027 than it is in 2025.

DFO conducted an investigation of predation pressure on mackerel by various predators in Canadian and U.S. waters for the 2023 assessment, which suggests an overall increase in predation-induced mackerel mortality over time, with high year-to-year variability.

DFO conducted additional egg and larval surveys from 2021 to 2024, indicating spawning activity was low in Western Newfoundland and nearly absent in Southern Newfoundland. The U.S. fishery remains open with a limited quota, reflecting a shared recognition by both countries of the need to rebuild.

Atlantic Spring Herring

This stock has been in the Critical Zone of the PA Framework since 2001, and is subject to the FSP of the Fisheries Act, mandating DFO to rebuild the stock and promote sustainability.

The commercial and bait fisheries for this stock have been closed since 2022.

The 2024 stock assessment indicated that even in the absence of fishery removals, it is likely (> 84.7 per cent probability) that the stock will remain in the critical zone until 2029.

Southwest Nova Scotia/ Bay of Fundy (SWNS/BoF) Atlantic Herring

This stock has been in the Critical Zone of the PA Framework since 2018. This stock has been recommended as a Batch 2 stock and will require a rebuilding plan should it remain in the Critical Zone.

The annual TAC for Southwest Nova Scotia/Bay of Fundy herring was set at 16,000 t for the years 2024-2027. However, the recently revised the total allowable catch for the Southwest Nova Scotia/Bay of Fundy Atlantic herring fishery from 16,000 tonnes to 20,000 tonnes for the 2025 fishing season, which is currently underway. A total allowable catch of 20,000 t was set for the 2026 season. This decision was made after considering all available information, including recent scientific data, which shows that there has been an increase in the survey estimate of the spawning stock biomass.

Industry members recommended a TAC of 21,000 t that was projected to have a high probability of growth, but required a drop to 10,000 t in 2027 to still allow for recovery.

There has been interest from members of industry to discuss the path forward for this stock, and the Department will be engaging with the Scotia-Fundy Herring Advisory Committee later this fall.

D23 - North Atlantic Right Whale

Question 1: What is the status of the Whalesafe Gear Strategy?

Question 2: How has the Department worked with harvesters to advance whalesafe gear?

Question 3: What is the impact of North Atlantic right whale entanglements on compliance with the United States Marine Mammal Protection Act and market access?

Background

The North Atlantic right whale (NARW) has been listed as Endangered under the Species at Risk Act since 2005. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting endangered marine species, including the NARW, by taking strong actions informed by science to prevent entanglements in fishing gear.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) implements world-class adaptive fishery management measures focused on preventing fishing gear entanglement, including aligning the opening of spring fisheries when right whales are suspected to be in lower numbers in Canadian waters, closing fishing areas where and when whales are detected, maintaining a robust scientific surveillance regime, implementing more whalesafe fishing gear technology, and taking action against ghost gear. The approach is in collaboration with harvesters, Indigenous communities, scientists, and international partners. These measures reflect Canada's commitment under the Species at Risk Act and are key to continued compliance with import requirements of the United States (U.S.) Marine Mammal Protection Act, protecting seafood market access and competitiveness.

DFO is working with harvesters in relevant fisheries to incorporate whalesafe technology and practices into their operations, identifying the most suitable and safe options for the conditions of each fishery. These include whalesafe pilot initiatives underway in certain lobster and shallow water fisheries in Eastern Canada.

The Whalesafe Gear Strategy—based on extensive engagement with stakeholders and partners—will guide the implementation of innovative fishing gear in commercial fisheries across Canada to reduce the impacts of whale entanglements, while supporting sustainable modern fisheries. This strategy will guide efforts to implement gear innovations that prevent entanglement (e.g., On-demand gear systems) as well as gear modifications that mitigate the impacts of entanglements if they occur (e.g., lower breaking strength gear). The publication of the strategy is highly anticipated.

In 2025, two NARW have been observed in Canadian waters interacting with fishing gear.

Entangled NARW 5132 was re-observed in May near les Escoumins, and in June near Prince Edward Island. Attempts to relocate the animal to assist with disentanglement were not successful. This whale was first observed entangled in December 2024 in U.S. waters. In May, DFO published a gear analysis concluding the gear photographed in the December entanglement is likely from Lobster Fishing Area 38 (Bay of Fundy). In August 2025, NARW 4146 was observed entrapped but free-swimming in a weir off Grand Manan, Nova Scotia. The whale was successfully freed following a response by the harvester, Conservation & Protection, and a marine mammal response partner (the Campobello Whale Rescue team).

D24 - Atlantic Seals

Question 1: What is the Department's seal management approach?

Question 2: How is the Government supporting the seal industry?

Background

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) manages commercial harvests for grey, hooded, and harp seals in the Atlantic region. There are currently no fisheries for seals or sea lions in the Pacific region; however, there is a food, social and ceremonial harvest.

The harp seal harvest occurs mainly from late March to May on the "Front" off northern Newfoundland, and to a lesser extent in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Hooded seals are taken during this period in Newfoundland and Labrador but are not a primary target. Grey seals are harvested primarily around the Magdalen Islands from late January to early February.

To minimize the harvest's public profile and given current low harvest levels, the Department has not set total allowable catches for Atlantic seals since 2016, instead monitoring harvests against scientific advice.

Management is informed by science. DFO has dedicated seal scientists who conduct surveys and assessments to determine seal abundance, population trends, and distribution.

Recent harvests remain well below sustainable levels, in part due to market access and poor ice conditions limiting access to the seals. In 2025, only seven per cent (16,902) of the sustainable harp seal harvest and one per cent (1,158) of the grey seal harvest was taken.

Seal product market access has been restricted since 1972 by the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act and further limited by the European Union's (EU) 2009 ban, despite exemptions for Indigenous and personal use.

In August 2024, Canada submitted a joint ministerial letter to the EU calling for repeal of the Regulation on the Trade in Seal Products. A summary of the consultation was published in October, with a final report expected by the end of 2025. DFO and Global Affairs Canada are monitoring developments closely.

Seal harvesters receive funding through the Canadian Fish and Seafood Opportunities Fund and through two projects with the sealing industry, totaling $4.5 million, with the purpose of strengthening the sector and market conditions for Canadian seal products in domestic and international markets.

Sealing industry proponents are eligible for project funding under the Atlantic Fisheries Fund and the Quebec Fisheries Fund. Combined, these funds have invested $1.3 million in eight projects with the sealing industry in Atlantic Canada and Quebec related to product development, processing equipment upgrades, and professional capacity building.

D25 - Wild Atlantic Salmon Conservation Strategy

Question 1: How is the Department advancing implementation of the Atlantic salmon strategy?

Question 2: What will the Atlantic salmon strategy do to mitigate urgent population declines on the Miramichi and other important salmon rivers?

Background

In response to continued Atlantic salmon population declines across its Canadian range, the Department developed a conservation strategy for this species to support fulfillment of the Government's 2021 mandate commitment to "work collaboratively to make new investments and develop a strategy to restore and rebuild wild Atlantic salmon populations and their habitat."

The Strategy was published in March 2025. Its development was informed by extensive engagement with Indigenous peoples, provincial governments, and stakeholders, and is intended to provide guidance for all aspects of Atlantic salmon restoration, science, policy, and management activities.

Alongside its publication in March 2025, the Government announced a $1 million investment to address the immediate priorities of the Strategy. The Department used a targeted call for proposals to ensure immediate priorities could be addressed within the 2025-26 fiscal year. The selected applicants were chosen for their ability to undertake projects that benefit the entire range of the species as well as their ability to address immediate priorities that will support future initiatives and the long-term implementation of the Strategy.

D26 - Aquaculture: Open Net-Pen Transition Plan in British Columbia

Question 1: What work has been completed to date?

Background

On June 19, 2024, the then Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, accompanied by the Member of Parliament for Vancouver Granville, announced the Government of Canada's policy to implement a ban on open net-pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia (B.C.) coastal waters by June 30, 2029.

Licences were renewed for five years, starting July 1, 2024. These renewed licences have stricter conditions that include improved management of sea lice on farmed fish, robust reporting requirements for industry, and additional monitoring of marine mammal interactions.

The draft B.C. Salmon Aquaculture Transition Plan was released in September 2024.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada has been working alongside Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and other departments as part of an interdepartmental work force, and speaking with First Nations communities directly to consider their unique circumstances, needs, and opportunities and challenges, as well as with other communities affected by the transition. This transition plan builds upon and nests within a broad framework of collaborative Government of Canada efforts to conserve and rebuild wild Pacific salmon populations.

D27 - Aquaculture: Growth Agenda in Atlantic Canada

Question 1: What is the impact of the British Columbia Salmon Aquaculture Transition Plan on aquaculture growth in Atlantic Canada?

Background

Aquaculture management across Canada is a shared federal/provincial responsibility. With the exception of Prince Edward Island, eastern provinces are the lead regulators, with responsibility for the daily operations and oversight of aquaculture activities. Many eastern provinces have strategies in place to grow the sector.

Atlantic provinces are calling on the federal government to publicly reaffirm provincial jurisdiction over aquaculture in Atlantic Canada and to send a clear, consistent message in support of the sector's sustainable development. Atlantic provinces have reiterated their concerns that federal decisions in British Columbia have negatively impacted investor confidence in Eastern Canada, created mixed messages for Canadians, and highlighted the need for a federal champion to advocate for aquaculture both domestically and internationally.

Quebec has indicated that in light of the declining fish stocks for wild capture fisheries, the Province needs specific financial support from the federal government to support the development of aquaculture.

D28 - Aquaculture Science

Question 1: What science advice has been completed on the impacts of farmed escapees on wild Atlantic salmon on the East coast of Canada?

Question 2: What work is being undertaken on sea lice?

Question 3: What work is being undertaken on aquaculture impacts?

Background

Fisheries and Oceans Canada's (DFO) generates research findings, provides science advice, and conducts environmental monitoring to support the Department's regulatory, policy, and management decisions.

Aquaculture research is conducted to inform decisions related to aquaculture-ecosystem interactions and impacts such as effects of pests and pathogens and potential fish health treatment and management; interactions between farmed and wild fish; release of organic matter and drugs from farms; and potential habitat impacts.

New scientific findings are generated through research projects that departmental scientists undertake through internally funded projects and through collaborations with external organizations and academics.

Science advice is delivered through DFO's Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS). This comprehensive review process includes the peer-review of aquaculture research by experts. The science advice is generated by consensus and the resulting research syntheses and advice are published on the CSAS website.

E - Ecosystem Protection and Science

E29 - Permitting Under the Fisheries Act and Support to the Building Canada Act and Projects of National Interest

Question 1: How will the Department work with the new Major Projects Office?

Question 2: How will DFO work to advance the review of other projects, not deemed in the national interest?

Question 3: What is causing longer timelines for DFO to authorize certain projects?

Question 4: What actions is DFO taking to improve regulatory efficiency?

Background

Under the Fisheries Act and the Species at Risk Act, the Department provides advice and regulates works, undertakings, and activities occurring near water (freshwater and marine) that could impact fish and fish habitat. The Department receives over 5,000 referrals per year, and issues approximately 200 Fisheries Act Authorizations spread across every industrial sector in Canada.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is an important federal expert providing advice on fish and fish habitat in the context of federal Impact Assessments led by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada.

For several years, the Department has been developing new tools to make the regulatory process more predictable and transparent while strengthening the conservation and protection of fish and fish habitat.

Progress has included the provision of new and improved guidance to proponents, such as new Codes of Practice and Standards, that provide guidance on how to avoid or mitigate impacts to fish and fish habitat so that they do not have to apply to the Department for project review.

The Building Canada Act was passed in June 2025, and a new Major Projects Office was created and announced in August 2025. Through the Act, the Government will get projects of national interest built by focusing on a small number of executable projects and shifting the focus of federal reviews from "whether" to build these projects to "how" to best advance them. The Department is working with the Privy Council Office and other federal departments and agencies to support the Act's implementation.

For Projects of National Interest, the Major Projects Management Office (MPO) will be responsible for creating a single set of conditions for proponents. The conditions will be based on advice from regulators, including DFO.

On September 5, 2025, DFO published its Red Tape Review Progress Report, in response to the Government's 60-day call for all Ministers to review regulations in their portfolios and propose actions and measures to eliminate red tape-including removing outdated regulations, reducing duplication with provincial rules, and making it easier to access and deliver services. In the report, DFO committed to taking actions to:

These actions will result in the provision of timely project advice, implementation of risk-based approaches, and an increased level of service to proponents through changes to policies, guidance, and regulations.

E30 - Canada's Marine Conservation Objectives

Question 1: How does the Department address the fishing industry's concerns over displaced livelihoods?

Question 2: What does the marine protected area site establishment process involve?

Background

The Department has established 14 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under the Oceans Act and recognized 61 marine refuges under the Fisheries Act.

In March 2025, three marine refuges, covering 466 km2, were recognized: G̱aw Ḵáahlii (Masset Inlet), X̲aana K̲aahlii (Skidegate Inlet), and Banks Island.

The Tang.ɢwan - ḥačxwiqak - Tsig̱is MPA was designated on June 19, 2024, contributing 2.3 per cent to the marine conservation target.

In February 2025, the Government of Canada, the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, the Pew Charitable Trusts, and the Aajuraq Conservation Fund Society announced the signing of the SINAA Agreement. The conservation plan linked to the agreement lays out steps that could conserve an additional 3.68 per cent.

In June 2024, Canada, British Columbia (BC), and 17 First Nations announced the signing of the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence agreement. The conservation plan linked with this initiative lays out steps that could conserve an additional 0.3 per cent.

In 2023, new details on activities subject to the 2019 MPA Protection Standard were announced. The standard applies to most new federal MPAs, where the Government plans to prohibit: oil and gas exploration, development, and production; mineral exploration and exploitation; disposal at sea of waste and other matter; dumping of fill; deposit of deleterious drugs and pesticides; and bottom-trawl gear.

The Department supports testing and implementing new fishing gear technologies to advance economic opportunities within protected and conserved areas while respecting the conservation objectives of a site. Gear innovation may help bridge the gap with any new conservation measures and restrictions to our partners and fish harvesters.

The Department worked closely with the Mamalilikulla First Nation to establish Gwaxdlala/Nalaxdlala (Lull Bay and Hoeya Sound) marine refuge and support this as an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area, which is an Indigenous-led conservation initiative that reflects the objectives and needs of the First Nation.

DFO Science continues to provide the evidence base for the establishment and management of conservation areas by: identifying areas that may be ecologically significant, unique, or vulnerable; providing input and advice for conservation objectives, boundaries and management plans for sites; and conducting ecological monitoring and research.

The fishing industry has raised concerns on conservation's cumulative impacts, particularly for Parks Canada's South Coast Fjords initiative in Newfoundland and sites advancing in BC's Northern Shelf Bioregion. The Department consults partners and stakeholders, including marine industries, throughout the site establishment process to mitigate socio-economic impacts where possible.

E31 - Ghost Gear

Background

The term 'ghost gear' refers to any fishing gear that has been abandoned, lost, or discarded, for example nets, line, rope, traps, pots, and floats. This marine pollution is some of the most harmful debris found in our oceans and can be fatal to fish, marine mammals, and other marine life, poses a navigation hazard, and breaks down into other forms of pollution such as micro-plastics.

The Government of Canada, working with partners and stakeholders, has made significant progress tackling lost fishing gear in Canada and abroad through the Ghost Gear Program.

Canada has been at the forefront of addressing this issue, signing on to the Global Ghost Gear Initiative in 2018, establishing a Ghost Gear Program in 2019, mandating lost gear reporting in 2020, creating an online Lost Gear Reporting System to facilitate meeting reporting requirements, and sharing lost gear reporting data with the Global Ghost Gear Initiative's Data Portal in 2022, and again in 2025.

As part of the program, specific funding periods were created under the Ghost Gear Fund to support projects focusing on ghost gear retrieval, disposal, technological advances, and international leadership (2020-2025).

Since 2020, the Ghost Gear Fund contributed a total of $58.4 million to 144 projects. Since work began, the Department has supported the retrieval of more than 41,300 units of gear, accounting for more than 2,481 tonnes of abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear removed from Canada's waters, as well as over 940 km of rope. More than 3,503 dedicated gear retrieval trips have occurred as a result of the program.

We thank our partners who participated in projects during those funding periods to help keep our waters clean from fishing gear debris.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is working on a Canadian Ghost Gear Action Plan to prevent fishing gear loss in the future. We will continue to support our partners in their efforts to keep our waters free from fishing gear debris.

E32 - Aquatic Invasive Species

Question 1: What is the Department doing to stop the introduction of Aquatic Invasive Species at the international border?

Question 2: What is the Department doing to address invasive green crab on Canada's coasts?

Question 3: What is the Department doing to address invasive sea lamprey in Canada's Great Lakes?

Background

The 2022 Fall Economic Statement identified $36.6 million over five years to fight aquatic invasive species in Canada. This included $8.75 million in contribution funding to launch the Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Fund to create new partnerships and help on-the-ground preventive actions.

Budget 2022 identified an additional $45 million over five years and $9 million ongoing to enable the Department and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission to increase efforts to control Sea Lamprey, further facilitate collaborative fishery management, and provide additional support to Great Lakes research.

Invasive Mussels

The Department supports the provincial prevention and early detection efforts for aquatic invasive species through scientific advice, education and outreach and enforcement actions.

In British Columbia (BC), the Department provided $540,000 from 2023 to 2025 for the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and contributed over $475,000 in 2022-23 through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Province to support BC's invasive mussel defense program. In addition, we contributed $568,280 toward aquatic invasive species monitoring and education (including invasive mussels) in 2024, through the Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk.

International Borders

Following the 2019 report from the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has been working closely with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to develop new protocols, tools, and procedures for the enforcement of the Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations at international borders.

Since 2022, DFO has worked with CBSA and the Province of Manitoba to run a watercraft inspection and decontamination station at the Emerson, Manitoba, port of entry. Inspection blitzes are conducted at the Manitoba-Ontario border on strategic weekends. The Department supports inspection activities of the BC Invasive Mussel Defense Program.

European Green Crab (EGC)

EGC is a marine invasive species that consumes and/or competes with indigenous species such as shellfish, crabs, and lobsters and disrupts estuarine habitats such as eelgrass and saltmarsh.

In 2010, a commercial EGC fishery was established in Maritimes Region to allow EGC use as lobster bait. The decision to support the use of aquatic invasive species (AIS) is not meant to create a sustainable fishery. The Department is preparing regional test cases for EGC use, which will be used to inform a cohesive national framework for the use of marine invasive species.

In 2024, the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers did not support the development of a national set of guiding principles on the use of AIS. DFO will therefore engage with provinces and territories bi-laterally when there is mutual interest.

E33 - Scientific Processes

Question 1: How is fisheries science consolidated in fisheries management decisions?

Question 2: What is the Department doing to ensure impartial and transparent science?

Background

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science provides information, analysis, and advice on key areas in support of decision-making, including sustainable fisheries, species protection and recovery, impacts of aquaculture on ecosystems, environmental and risk assessments, oceans management, and emergency response.

Departmental scientists conduct mandate-driven research to inform management decisions.

Departmental monitoring programs provide long-term data to help understand and react to changes in the water.

The Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) provides a consistent and systematic process for the delivery of peer-reviewed science advice for DFO. CSAS ensures an inclusive and transparent scientific process and can involve experts from DFO, other organizations (such as environmental non-government organizations, etc.), stakeholders (such as fishing industry, shipping industry, oil and gas industry, etc.), Indigenous groups, and academia. These experts are subject to DFO's policies including with respect to managing Conflict of Interest.

Through the CSAS processes, experts consider the body of relevant scientific work and review existing data and analyses to generate evidence-based science advice to inform decision-making relevant to DFO's mandate.

To help broaden the range of experts that can be drawn upon for its peer review processes, the Department has established an External Expert Identification Committee. The Committee helps to identify external experts to broaden DFO's existing network and contributes expertise that supports peer reviewed science advice.

As a science-based Department, scientific integrity is essential to the work of DFO and its employees. Scientific integrity is critical to the decision-making process from the planning and conduct of research, to the production of advice and the application of advice to decision-making processes.

The Department's Scientific Integrity Policy recognizes the importance of high-quality science, free from political, commercial, and client interference and the importance of this in the decision-making processes utilized by the Department.

E34 - Oyster Diseases

Question 1: What measures are being taken to limit the spread of MSX?

Question 2: What is the Department doing to support MSX research?

If pressed about Dermo disease in oysters

Background

Canada's National Aquatic Animal Health Program, co-delivered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), is responsible for preventing the introduction and/or spread of significant diseases of finfish, molluscs, and crustaceans.

The CFIA is the lead agency with legislative authority under the federal Health of Animals Act. The CFIA is responsible for enforcing regulations governing import and export, disease management and surveillance activities. DFO provides diagnostic testing services at CFIA's request, research support, and scientific advice.

Since the first confirmed case of Multinucleate sphere unknown (MSX) in July 2024, and the first detection of Dermo in Canada in November 2024, DFO has conducted over 17,000 diagnostic tests for oysters. These efforts supported the CFIA's decision-making and containment strategies, and the overall response during the outbreak reflected a strong federal effort marked by effective mobilization, robust testing capacity, and enhanced readiness for future aquatic animal health emergencies.

As of September 2, 2025, the CFIA declared the waters of Eastern Canada (i.e., New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec) as areas where both MSX and Dermo are present or very likely to be present. This means that the movement of oysters which are not yet ready for commercial sale for human consumption will be managed according to the CFIA's Domestic Movement Control Program.

On Canada's east coast, DFO regulates oyster movements with introductions and transfers licences under the Fishery (General) Regulations via the Introductions and Transfers Licencing Program. The licences authorize the intentional release and transfer of live aquatic organisms into fish-bearing waters or fish-rearing facilities when the proposed transfer poses low ecological, disease, and genetic risks.

Risks associated with each movement, including shellfish for aquaculture purposes, are assessed by federal-provincial/territorial Introduction and Transfer Committees, which have representation from DFO and provincial/territorial governments.

MSX

MSX is a disease in oysters caused by the parasite Haplosporidium nelsoni. It is a serious disease that can cause significant mortality of both cultured and wild oysters American oysters (Crassostrea virginica).

In Canada, the disease was first detected in Bras d'Or Lake, Nova Scotia in 2001, and it was found in the waters of Prince Edward Island in July 2024. Since then, it has been found in Quebec and most Atlantic provinces, with the exception of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Dermo

Dermo (Perkinsosis) is a disease in oysters caused by the parasite Perkinsus marinus. It is a serious disease that can cause significant mortality of both cultured and wild American oysters (Crassostrea virginica).

Based on tests conducted at DFO's aquatic animal health laboratory in Moncton, CFIA confirmed a detection of Dermo disease in New Brunswick in November 19, 2024. Since then, Dermo has been detected in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and the Island of Newfoundland. No abnormal mortalities were observed at these sites.

These were the first detections in Canada. Consequently, the CFIA notified the World Organisation for Animal Health of the outbreak.

E35 - Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development Report: Integrated Oceans Management

Question 1: How is the Department addressing criticisms of the implementation of integrated oceans management planning?

Background

On June 10, 2025, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development (CESD) tabled the 2025 spring performance audit reports in the House of Commons. The report on integrated oceans management (IOM), which includes marine spatial planning (MSP), is critical of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) for not effectively implementing an IOM approach or identifying concrete actions within its plans.

The CESD audit concluded that the Department did not effectively lead and facilitate the development and implementation of an IOM approach for conservation of ecosystems, sustainable use of marine resources, and shared use of ocean spaces. Specifically, the audit found that IOM plans were not effectively implemented, that first generation marine spatial plans were not designed ready for implementation, and that Canada is currently not on track to manage all marine areas in an integrated way. The audit further highlighted challenges with respect to tracking MSP funding expenditures.

The report makes two key recommendations: 1) the Department to enhance the value of its plans by providing more details on concrete actions and establishing accountabilities; and 2) better monitoring and reporting regarding the implementation of plans.

Section 31 of the Oceans Act mandates the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, in collaboration with other federal departments, provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous groups, and stakeholders, to lead and facilitate the development and implementation of plans for the integrated management of all activities or measures in or affecting estuaries, coastal waters, and marine waters of Canada. In Canada, integrated oceans management plans and marine spatial plans do not replace existing management, regulations, and policies; but rather, bring together existing processes and those responsible for them to advance.

Publication of the first-generation marine spatial plans represented an important milestone in Canada's commitment to MSP but was intended to be further advanced in a future implementation phase. The Department remains committed to advancing IOM, building on past progress.

To help clarify priorities and accountabilities, the Blue Economy Regulatory Roadmap commits to developing a policy statement by 2026-27, and a whole of government policy by 2030-31. DFO will advance these policy measures outlining the how and when of IOM processes, the utilization of resulting plans, and the roles and responsibilities of all partners involved. This approach aims to facilitate the coordinated advancement of IOM while respecting existing authorities in order to support the economic potential of Canada's oceans.

E36 - Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development Report: Critical Habitat for Species at Risk

Background

A performance audit of critical habitat for species at risk was completed by the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development and was tabled in the House of Commons on June 10, 2025.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Parks Canada are implicated in this audit.

The audit found that critical habitat was identified to the extent possible, but information gaps prevented the full identification of critical habitat and protection of species at risk. It concluded that DFO did not monitor the implementation of all conservation actions for critical habitat and was unaware if offsets to minimize negative impacts on critical habitat were effective.

The Department is taking action in response to the audit findings. To address the audit's observation that information gaps have limited the full identification of critical habitat, DFO is working to prioritize studies that directly contribute to completing this work for aquatic species at risk.

DFO updated its relevant internal guidelines to place greater emphasis on studies that are essential to completing the identification of critical habitat, rather than those focused on refining existing boundaries. This more targeted approach will help prioritize studies that offer the greatest benefit to critical habitat identification and species recovery. Further, DFO is committed to improving how it tracks and reports on conservation actions taken by partners.

DFO requires project proponents to submit plans to avoid, mitigate, and offset impacts to critical habitat before issuing permits for work/projects that may impact fish and fish habitat. DFO works with project proponents to ensure that their measures to offset impacts are effective, and will continue to review all monitoring reports submitted by project proponents.

F - Indigenous Rights and Reconciliation

F37 - Food, Social and Ceremonial Fisheries

Question 1: What is being done to combat sale of food, social and ceremonial?

Question 2: How is the Department further implementing food, social and ceremonial fishing?

Background

Court decisions, particularly the 1990 Supreme Court of Canada Sparrow decision, have found that certain Indigenous groups have the right to fish for food, social and ceremonial (FSC) purposes. Although the Courts have affirmed this right only for certain Indigenous groups, following Sparrow, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) established a policy to broadly provide FSC access to Indigenous groups across the country. This includes both Section 35 rights holders as well as certain other Indigenous organizations.

Typically, FSC licences are issued following consultations with Indigenous communities, and conditions of the licence are based on specific considerations raised by each community. In many instances, collaboration between the Department and Indigenous communities on the management of FSC harvesting is high, and the Department provides funding to support Indigenous participation in the management of FSC harvesting. In other instances, relationships between the Department and communities are challenging and in those instances, consultation or collaborative management is a less prominent feature.

The long standing Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy and Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Oceans Management programs provide a platform for continuous collaboration and capacity building as Indigenous communities and organizations manage FSC harvests and contribute knowledge and technical expertise to the management of fisheries, habitat, and aquatic ecosystems.

Many Indigenous communities are calling on the Department to enable greater roles for Indigenous communities in fisheries management, including defined roles in FSC fisheries decision-making. In line with the existing legislative functions of the Minister, and their responsibilities to enable the exercise of fishing rights, the Department continues to engage with communities to explore opportunities for deeper Indigenous involvement in FSC management.

Recently in the Maritimes Region, the Department consulted with two First Nation communities on new conditions of licence to promote the intended purpose of FSC fishing and to help deter the commercialization of FSC lobster. Amended FSC licences were issued in August 2025, and the Department will continue to consult with other communities regarding updated conditions of licence.

The Department has been working on making improvements to FSC lobster management in the Maritimes Region, including via consultation with implicated First Nations, since 2022. In response to specific orderly management and commercialization concerns over the last few years, the Department further focused on consultation with a few First Nations in 2025. This renewed consultation sought to promote the intended purpose of FSC fishing and deter the commercialization of FSC lobster by better aligning conditions of licence with FSC interests while enhancing traceability and catch reporting requirements. Following consultation, some FSC licences have been amended to implement changes and the Department will continue to consult with other communities regarding improved conditions of licence, as needed.

The Department is currently engaged in a review of fisheries policies with the aim of assuring those policies align with the intent and spirit of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the federal legislation that affirms application of the Declaration in Canadian law. Most directly tied to FSC is an ongoing review in collaboration with regional Indigenous organizations of the Policy for the Management of Aboriginal Fishing (often informally referred to as the "1993 Policy").

F38 - Indigenous Moderate Livelihood Fishing

Question 1: How will the Government ensure that Indigenous Peoples have the fishing licences ("access") needed to exercise their rights?

Background

The Supreme Court of Canada formally recognized a right of Indigenous people in the Maritime provinces and the Gaspé region of Quebec to hunt and fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood in the 1999 Marshall decisions. This treaty right applies to 35 Indigenous communities (Mi'kmaq and Wolastoqiyik First Nations in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and the Gaspé region of Quebec, as well as the Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik in New Brunswick), collectively referred to as "Treaty Nations."

Since 2000, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has invested just over $1 billion in fishing licences, vessels, gear, and training to help increase and diversify Treaty Nations' participation in commercial fisheries, and to advance the implementation of the right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood. This includes ongoing programmatic funding to 2027.

These investments have resulted in meaningful economic benefits that continue to increase year-over-year. The annual value for Treaty Nations' commercial fisheries landings increased from $3 million in 1999 to $208.5 million in 2021.

In 2017, DFO launched the Rights Reconciliation Agreement (RRA) process with Treaty Nations, with a mandate to negotiate enhanced fisheries collaborative management, fisheries governance and increased fisheries access, all while recognizing but not defining the moderate livelihood right. The RRA mandate expired in April 2023, with DFO concluding seven RRAs with 15 Treaty Nations (representing 42 per cent of the total Treaty Nations' population).

In 2024, DFO began implementing a renewed approach to further implement the right. This approach is supported by $259.4 million over three years starting in 2024-25, of which $244.3 million is for the Community-Based Access Acquisition (CBAA) initiative. The CBAA builds upon existing DFO programming and is available to Treaty Nations as the primary method for acquiring access through transactions between willing buyers and willing sellers on the open market. No formal agreement is required to receive funding.

The Department continues to have regular and frequent meetings at various levels with fishing industry stakeholders to answer questions about moderate livelihood fishing and provide industry with an opportunity to share its views. However, many industry stakeholders remain critical of being excluded from discussions with Treaty Nations and what they perceive as a lack of transparency regarding Canada's long-term approach to rights-based fishing.

F39 - British Columbia Treaty and Reconciliation Negotiations

Question 1: What is the impact of increased First Nation fishery agreements to commercial and recreational fisheries?

If pressed on British Columbia Supreme Court Decision in the Cowichan litigation:

Background

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is involved in multiple treaty and reconciliation agreement negotiations and is working toward concluding negotiations at a number of tables in the coming year. In British Columbia (BC), the Department is working with First Nations to explore new ways of working together to advance the recognition of Indigenous rights and self-determination at approximately 40 negotiation tables.

DFO is prioritizing closing negotiations toward multiple treaties and reconciliation agreements in BC over the next few years by resolving key fish issues and ensuring advanced treaties reach ratification by all parties. This includes treaties with Kitselas, Kitsumkalum, and K'όmoks First Nations, which were initialed by all parties in 2024.

Modern-day treaties

The following modern treaties in Pacific Region contain fisheries provisions:

Elements in the fisheries chapters in the modern treaties in British Columbia describe the Nations' fishing rights, including the right to harvest fish and aquatic plants for domestic purposes in their fishing areas in accordance with their treaties; describe fish allocations; and identify processes for engagement, collaborative governance, and shared decision making on fisheries through Joint Fisheries Committees. Treaties are constitutionally protected.

In addition to modern treaties, the following historic treaties in BC contain fisheries provisions: Douglas Treaties (1850-1852) and Treaty 8 (1899).

The Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination (RIRSD) process enables Canada and Indigenous communities across Canada to negotiate agreements that aim to recognize and implement Aboriginal rights and support self-determination in ways that reflect the distinct rights, needs, and priorities of each community. Unlike modern treaties, RIRSD agreements—also known as reconciliation agreements—are time-limited, do not define rights, and are not constitutionally protected. There are five concluded fisheries reconciliation agreements in BC.

G - Annex

G40 - Recreational Fishery Regulations

Question 1: What is the government doing to support the food fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador and is the Minister aware of the concerns raised in the private members' bill brought forward by the member for Terra Nova—The Peninsulas?

Background

Canada's marine and tidal recreational fisheries contribute meaningfully to the lives and livelihoods of Canadians and coastal communities. Management of these fisheries is a shared responsibility between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments. In general, the federal government is responsible for all marine species. Provincial and territorial governments are responsible for freshwater species, with the exception of the management of salmon in British Columbia, which is under federal jurisdiction.

Over 30 marine species are fished for recreational and personal use, where licensing, regulations, monitoring, and reporting under the Fisheries Act and regulations, vary by species and by region. In the Pacific region, all marine recreational fisheries are managed under one licence, where conditions, restrictions, and mandatory reporting requirements are adapted as needed. The Arctic region follows a similar model, where a sport fishing licence allows fishing in all waters in the North West Territories or Nunavut with specific conditions or restrictions.

In Atlantic Canada and Quebec, there is no all-inclusive licence and only a few species have a licensing requirement. In some cases where a licence does not apply, regulations which set catch limits, gear restrictions, area restrictions and reporting requirements can be in place, depending on the species.

Coastal community members and other Canadian have raised concerns about inconsistent regional requirements for recreational, sport and/or personal use fisheries. In Atlantic Canada's recreational groundfish fisheries, recreational fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador is restricted to weekends, while in the Maritimes, no such limitation exists. There is a growing interest in Canada for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to enhance or create access to recreational fisheries for food purposes. For example, coastal communities in the Quebec region support recreational access to lobster with daily catch limits.

DFO is monitoring the evolving interests of fishers and coastal communities in recreational and personal use fisheries, and is assessing opportunities to address their expectations. This work requires time and capacity to carefully consider many factors, especially for species already fished commercially and through rights-based fisheries. Factors may include sustainability of the stock, data availability and reporting requirements, safe and ethical harvesting practices, and socio-economic opportunities. The cultural and/or significance importance of the species to Indigenous Peoples is also a fundamental consideration.

For the recreational groundfish fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Department will hold consultations this fall to explore differences in the health of the province's cod populations on the south and west coasts, as compared to Northern cod, along with daily limits, dates of the fishery, and other measures. Outcomes of these consultations will inform next year's decisions on recreational access to the fishery.

Private Members Bill (C-237) was introduced in the House of Commons on September 22, 2025. The bill proposes to amend the Fisheries Act (Act) to provide measures for managing Atlantic groundfish fisheries, including harmonization of close times. If enacted, the amendments would expand the Minister's reporting obligations; add a new publication requirement for Governor in Council regulations and prescribe a timeframe for advanced notice for close times, quotas, and variation orders; require the development of a fish catch monitoring system; and, expand record-keeping requirements for harvesters.

G41 - Cetacean Export

If pressed on whether the cetaceans can be relocated to a sanctuary

If pressed on funding

Background

Recent decision pertaining to Marineland

The Minister of Fisheries has denied Marineland's request for permits to export 30 belugas to the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom theme park in China. The proposed destination facility did not meet the policy requirement to commit to not breeding the animals. Further, the belugas, if exported, would have likely been used for public entertainment purposes. On this basis, the request was denied.

Recent media coverage has heightened public concerns regarding the future welfare of the cetaceans at Marineland, including reports on Marineland's transition to new ownership, that they are seeking to relocate the marine mammals currently held at their facility, and the recent death of a beluga whale and harbour seal at Marineland. Marineland is the only aquarium in Canada that currently holds cetaceans.

While some animal rights groups have looked to the federal government for action, the jurisdiction related to cetaceans in captivity is a shared one, as aquatic parks and zoos, animal care, and private property of animals are under provincial jurisdiction in Canada.

While the whale sanctuary project in Nova Scotia is still in development and in the planning phase, animal rights groups have expressed their desire to see both federal and provincial governments support and expedite the creation of sanctuaries to allow for the transfer of Marineland's belugas. Globally, whale sanctuaries have had limited success.

Canadian legislation aimed at ending the captivity of cetaceans

In June 2019, the Fisheries Act and the Criminal Code were amended to, among other things, end the practice of keeping cetaceans in captivity in Canada.

Simply put, the 2019 amendments to the Criminal Code created offences respecting cetaceans in captivity, including (among others) offences for keeping cetaceans in captivity, breeding cetaceans in captivity, and the use of cetaceans for entertainment purposes, unless otherwise authorized.

The 2019 Criminal Code amendments included a grandfather clause such that it is not an offence for a person to keep a cetacean in captivity where that person held that cetacean in captivity on the day the amendments came into force.

Process for applying for a permit to export a living cetacean

The Minister may issue a permit for the export of a living cetacean under subsection 23.2(2) of the Fisheries Act only if the export is a) for the purpose of scientific research; or b) for the purpose of keeping the cetacean in captivity if it is in the best interests of the cetacean's welfare to do so.

DFO's Policy for Obtaining a Ministerial permit authorizing the import or export of a living cetacean indicates that any application must, among other things, be supported by commitments from the destination facility to uphold animal welfare practices that are consistent with Canada's values and interests, such as a commitment that the destination facility will not breed or impregnate the cetacean being exported from Canada.

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