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Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (FOPO)

Ministerial Appearance on Budget Implementation Act

Table of Contents

A – Opening Remarks

Final opening remarks were not provided with this binder.

B – Departmental Overview

B1 – Budget 2025 and Comprehensive Expenditure Review

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?

Background

On November 4, 2025, the Government published “Budget 2025: Canada Strong” focused on building major infrastructure and homes to transform the economy, protecting our communities and borders, and empowering Canadians with better careers and a more affordable way of life. 

Canada is facing global uncertainty and economic disruption, prompting a shift toward greater resilience and self-sufficiency. “Budget 2025: Canada Strong” outlines a plan to invest in housing, infrastructure, defence, and productivity, while reducing government operational spending. With $60 billion in savings and new revenues, the budget aims to unlock $1 trillion in investments over five years, modernize government, and empower Canadians through better jobs, services, and affordability. It’s a strategy to build a stronger economy by Canadians, for Canadians.

For Fisheries and Oceans Canada specifically, the Budget mentioned three programs – Small Craft Harbours (SCH), the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program (FFHPP) and the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation (FFMC).

SCH
No new money for SCH was provided through Budget 2025. However, it did highlight that the SCH program, which manages over 950 harbours, received $463.3 million over three years starting in 2024–25 under Budget 2024 for repairs and maintenance. This is in addition to its $90 million annual base budget and $70 million over two years starting in 2022–23 for Hurricane Fiona recovery. These investments ensure safe, fully operational facilities that support 45,000 Canadians and sustain commercial fishing in rural and coastal communities.

The budget did note a commitment to install a breakwater in Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador as part of the Build Communities Strong Fund. As Petty Harbour is a SCH, the Department is involved with advancing its implementation.

FFHPP
Budget 2025 also highlighted a one year funding extension that was provided to the FFHPP before the 2025 election. It provided funding of $84 million in 2025–26 with $12 million sourced from existing resources, for a net new investment of $72 million. This funding supports streamlined reviews for low-risk projects and prioritizes higher-risk activities to protect aquatic ecosystems, ensuring the sustainability of fish populations and habitats critical to Canada’s biodiversity and fisheries.

FFMC
Budget 2025 announced proposed legislative amendments, through the Budget Implementation Act, to enable the divestiture of FFMC and the eventual repeal of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Act (FFMA).

These amendments are necessary to enable the divestiture, as the Financial Administration Act states that shares of Crown corporations cannot be sold or otherwise disposed of, and Crown corporations cannot be dissolved or amalgamated, unless authorized by an act of Parliament. The Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1 was introduced in the House of Commons on November 18, 2025.

C – Impacts and Supports for the Fish and Seafood Sector

C2 – 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.

C3 – 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?

Question 3: How is the Government of Canada supporting the sector to mitigate the impact of 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.

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.

In 2024, 68 per cent of Canada’s fish and seafood export value were destined for the United States and 16 per cent for China.

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).

On January 16, 2026, China committed to removing antidiscrimination tariffs on Canadian lobsters and crabs from March 1 until the end of 2026 as part of the Preliminary Agreement in Principle to Address Economic and Trade Issues between Canada and China, advanced during the Prime Minister’s visit to China.

 25 per cent tariff imposed by China as of March 20, 2025 on other Canadian imports, including, shrimp, prawn, clams, sea cucumber, geoduck (Pacific region only), Greenland halibut products, and herring oils are not in the Agreement. 

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.

C4 – International Market Access and Canada’s Ocean 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.

In Budget 2025, the Government of Canada announced the development of a new Trade Diversification Strategy (TDS) which aims to increase Canada’s non-United States (U.S.) exports by 50 percent by 2030. This will be achieved through diversifying and strengthening Canada’s collaboration with trading partners beyond the U.S., such as those in Asia and Europe, notably by leveraging existing free trade agreements.

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.

Amendment to 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 as of Jan. 1, 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 and aquaculture operations received comparability findings under the MMPA.

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

C5 – Next Generation of Licence Holders

Question 1: What challenges are aspiring licence holders 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.

C6 – 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.

C7 – Fish Harvester Safety

Question 1: What initiatives has the Department undertaken to ensure fish harvester safety?

Question 2: How does the Department work with its partners to ensure fish harvester safety?

Background

The Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans studies and reports on matters related to the federal role in the management of Canada’s fisheries and safeguarding its waters.

On October 7, 2025, a motion was adopted to study the safety in the fishing industry given that fishing is Canada’s most deadly industry with an average of 11 harvesters losing their life each year compared to a nation like Iceland that lands two times more fish than Canada, with an average of only one life lost per year.

The study could involve consultations with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Transport Canada, Canadian Coast Guard – National Defence, representatives from other countries, and different stakeholders and experts.

C8 – Enabling Divestiture of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation

Question 1: Why is the Government divesting the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation?

Question 2: How will remote Indigenous harvesters be served?

Background

Budget 2025 proposed legislative amendments, through the Budget Implementation Act, to enable the divestiture of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation (FFMC) and to eventually repeal the Freshwater Fish Marketing Act (FFMA).

These amendments are necessary to enable the divestiture, as the Financial Administration Act states that shares of Crown corporations cannot be sold or otherwise disposed of, and Crown corporations cannot be dissolved or amalgamated, unless authorized by an act of Parliament. The Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1 was introduced in the House of Commons on November 18, 2025.

The FFMC is a federal Crown corporation created in 1969 through the FFMA. It is a single-desk purchaser, processor, and marketer of freshwater commercial fish in provinces and territories participating under the act – originally Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and the Northwest Territories.

Divestiture has become necessary as the FFMC's operating environment has fundamentally changed in recent years: Ontario withdrew in 2011, Saskatchewan in 2012, and Manitoba in 2017. Alberta closed its commercial fishery in 2014. The Northwest Territories remains the only active participant under the FFMA, although other jurisdictions continue to sell fish to the FFMC under contracts.

In November 2023, Fisheries and Oceans Canada announced the Government of Canada’s decision to divest the FFMC through an open, transparent and competitive process, which allows the Department to assess the merits of any proposal received.

The divestiture process is structured to eliminate, or significantly reduce, financial liabilities to the Crown while promoting Indigenous economic reconciliation and continued market access for rural, remote and isolated harvesters.

The process began with the Solicitation of Interest (February 19 – April 5, 2024) followed by the Request for Proposals (RFP), launched December 5, 2024. The solicitation of non-binding final letters of intent concluded on September 17, 2025 and a preferred bidder has been selected based on pre-established criteria. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is currently engaged in exclusive negotiations with the preferred bidder toward a binding final agreement to acquire the FFMC.

Indigenous organizations, who have historically faced barriers to accessing capital, have been provided the opportunity to access capacity funding to facilitate their participation in the competitive bidding process to provide a more level playing field with private sector interests.

Should a binding final agreement be concluded, the proposed amendments will enable the transfer of ownership to a successor entity. The amendments also allow the repeal of the FFMA on a date to be set by the Governor-in-council.

D – Fisheries and Aquaculture Management

D9 – Fisheries Decision-Making

Question 1: Who makes decisions?

Question 2: How does advice from advisory committees inform decision-making?

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, which requires that rebuilding plans be developed for depleted key harvested fish stocks. The 2019 amendments to the Fisheries Act introduced the Fish Stocks provisions, which — among other requirements — set a legal requirement to develop rebuilding plans for depleted major fish stocks that are prescribed in regulation. Supporting regulations require these plans be completed within 24-36 months. 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 currently prescribed to the Fish Stocks provisions, 15 are depleted—that is, they are below their Limit Reference Point in the critical zone. Since 2022, rebuilding plans have been developed for these 15 stocks in the critical zone.

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. FOPO held its final meeting of the review on December 9, 2025. In total, FOPO held 17 meetings, hearing from 95 witnesses, and received 39 written briefs. The report and recommendations are expected to be presented to the House at the end of February at the earliest.

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.

With respect to Fisheries Act permitting, industry representatives, environmental non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous partners supported amendments to enable third party habitat banking and fee in lieu of offsetting; these amendments would provide more flexibility and efficiency when offsetting impacts from development projects.

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?

Question 3: Are there sufficient enforcement efforts related to Fisheries Act activities?

Question 4: Why are more Fisheries Act offences not prosecuted?

Question 5: Do Fishery Officers encounter political interference?

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 – Unauthorized Lobster Fishing in Atlantic Canada

Question 1: What is the Department doing to address the issue of unreported cash sales of lobster?

Question 2: What are the enforcement efforts in relation to unauthorized lobster fishing in Atlantic Canada?

Background

Conservation and Protection (C&P) is the enforcement division for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and its Fishery Officers (FOs) operate in a complex environment, particularly with respect to their enforcement role and recognizing 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.

FOs are designated under the Fisheries Act and are authorized to enforce that act and the Coastal Fisheries Protection Act. They are also designated as enforcement officers under the Oceans Act and the Species at Risk Act, and as such they also have enforcement responsibilities under these acts. Violations of a criminal nature such as theft, destruction of property, acts of violence are beyond the scope and mandate of C&P and are the responsibility of the local police of jurisdiction. C&P works with enforcement partners when they discover potential violations or acts of a criminal nature that fall outside their scope or mandate.

Industry groups and the Province of Nova Scotia have raised concerns about the “cash” sales of fish products. The sale of fish products using “cash” is not illegal as cash is a legal tender. The underlying issue is the sale of fish caught in contravention of the Fisheries Act or the tax implications stemming from unreported income. 

Combatting illegal activities in the fishing industry is a priority for the Government of Canada. To address unreported cash sales, an approach involving all of the Government of Canada as well as other orders of government is required.

An Intergovernmental and Interdepartmental Steering Committee, which is co-chaired by DFO and the Province of Nova Scotia, as well as an Operational and Policy subcommittees were created. Government sectors and departments with relevant mandates are collaborating on, and will continue to work towards, mitigating illegal and illicit activities related to unreported landings and cash sales in the lobster fisheries.

The Department only has the legal authority and mandate to address issues of non-compliance with the Fisheries Act and its associated regulations, such as unreported landings or unauthorized fishing. FOs have been actively conducting compliance inspection activities at sea, on the wharf and in holding facilities.

Other government agencies such as the Canada Revenue Agency are responsible for issues associated with tax evasion or unreported income; and provincial authorities are responsible for regulating provincial fish buyers and processors.

D14 – 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.

D15 – 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:

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.

D16 – 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 relevant 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 Northwest 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 cases where licencing 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 Canadians 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 from communities and businesses for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to enhance or create access to recreational fisheries.

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.

For the recreational groundfish fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Department recently held consultations that attracted strong participation 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. In 2025, DFO also implemented a recreational groundfish tour boat pilot project in Newfoundland and Labrador, where feedback received in-season from participants was generally positive. A full analysis of fishery results, feedback on the pilot, the Recreational Groundfish Fishery survey, and the latest stock status for each stock will be used to inform 2026 management decision.

Private Members Bill (C-237) was introduced in the House of Commons on September 22, 2025. The bill proposes to amend the Fisheries 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. 

D17 – 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?

Question 4: What is the impact of seal predation on Northern cod and how is it accounted for in the stock assessment?

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 launched 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.

A CSAS peer-review meeting to assess the status of the Northern cod stock is scheduled for March 2026. This Science advice will inform the 2026 recreational fishery decision.

The assessment model for Northern cod was last reviewed and updated at a framework peer review held in October 2023. During that process, all available data was reviewed, and assumptions about important drivers of stock dynamics were evaluated. Data and research on harp seals were considered but were not included in the model at that time. The review process concluded that Northern cod productivity is linked to Capelin availability. Therefore, Capelin biomass was included in the model.

D18 – Elver Fishery and Trade

Question 1: What was the status of elver enforcement in 2025 and what are the plans for 2026?

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: What is the status of the total allowable catch in the elver fishery for 2026?

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: What was the outcome of the European Union proposal to list all non-listed freshwater eels species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) at its 20th Conference of Parties (CoP20)?

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. Planning is underway for the 2026 fishery, which could open as early as the regulated opening date of March 1.

Species at Risk Act (SARA)
In 2015-2016, Fisheries and Oceans Canada 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. The decision not to add American Eel to Schedule 1 of SARA considered the outcomes of consultations, scientific advice, socio-economic impacts, and alternative management options.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)
The CITES Conference of the Parties was held in late November 2025. The European Union (EU), Honduras, and Panama’s proposal to include all non-CITES listed freshwater eels, including the American eel, under Appendix II of the convention was not adopted as it didn’t receive two-thirds of the vote needed to pass. Canada voted against this proposal based on the review of the proposal guided by Canada’s principles for CITES.

D19 – 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?

Question 3: Are striped bass negatively impacting Atlantic salmon populations?

Background

Striped bass (Morone saxatilis) in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence is an anadromous fish that spawns primarily 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. After more than a decade of closures, the food, social and ceremonial and recreational fisheries reopened in 2013.

A recent update of stock status indicators was conducted in December 2025 under the Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat. Striped bass abundance continues to fluctuate, and the population remains in the cautious zone of the Precautionary Approach Framework in recent years.

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 2025, 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.

The Atlantic Salmon Federation has done a study where they surgically implanted salmon smolts (e.g. small out-migrating Atlantic salmon). In the Miramichi system, these were shown to have a lower survival rate. However, the impact of the surgery on the smolt may confound the interpretation of decreased survival.

D20 – 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. The next stock assessment is planned for 2027.

Fishery Reopening and Participation
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. The second year of fishing is currently underway, with approximately 13.4 per cent of the 60,000 t quota landed as of January 16, 2026. The season will remain open until March 31, 2026.

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 advisory committee process, and the Department remains open to revisiting its approach based on future interest.

D21 – Atlantic Mackerel and Atlantic Herring

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

Question 2: Why does the Department not use acoustics data in the mackerel assessment? 

Question 3: What is Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s response to the recent U.S. stock assessment and recommendation to increase U.S. quota? 

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 (t), 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.

The U.S. Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council has recommended a significant increase in Atlantic mackerel quotas for the 2026–2027 seasons, following stock projections showing improved biomass. U.S. commercial quota is expected to increase from 868 t in 2025 to 11,237 t in 2026 and 13,210 t in 2027. This increase in U.S. quota could come into effect as early as January 2026.

4T Atlantic Herring Spring Spawners
This stock has been in the Critical Zone of the PA Framework since 2001, and is subject to the Fish Stock Provisions 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. The next stock assessment for Atlantic herring is scheduled for March 18-19, 2026, and the Department will be engaging with the Gulf Small Pelagics Advisory Committee the following week.

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 Department is beginning work on this rebuilding plan with a target completion date of late 2027. An updated scientific framework process is also currently underway, with plans to complete the review and provide updated stock advice by early 2027.

The annual TAC for Southwest Nova Scotia/Bay of Fundy herring was set at 16,000 t for the years 2024-2027. However, the TAC for the Southwest Nova Scotia/Bay of Fundy Atlantic herring fishery was revised in September 2025, from 16,000 tonnes to 20,000 tonnes for the 2025 fishing season. A TAC 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.

The Department will continue to engage with members of the industry and other stakeholders through the Scotia-Fundy Herring Advisory Committee, with the next meeting of the committee planned for this winter. Separate working groups will also be held to inform both the scientific and rebuilding plan processes.

D22 – Development of Lobster Fishery in Quebec

Question 1: What scientific information did the Department use as a basis for issuing the new exploratory fishing permits?

Question 2: How did Fisheries and Oceans Canada allocate permits among Indigenous communities and individual fishers?

Question 3: How will the Department use the information collected through these exploratory licences?

Question 4: What are the preliminary results of exploratory fishery in 2025?

Background

and landings in commercial fishing throughout Quebec. In 2023, Quebec's lobster sector was the most lucrative sector of Quebec's fisheries, with revenues of $232.3 million. In 2024, for the third year in a row, Magdalen Islands fishermen broke a record with more than 16 million pounds of lobster landed on the archipelago's docks (just over 7.2 million kilograms).

Before the issuance of the new exploratory licences, landings in the Gaspé Peninsula and on the North Shore were increasing significantly. In 2022, landings in lobster fishing areas (LFAs) 19, 18, and 17 were respectively, 488.2 per cent, 386.3 per cent, and 158.1 per cent higher, compared to the 1997–2021 average.

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 process of developing the exploratory fishing plan, including the allocation criteria, was transparent, rigorous, and objective. The approach to issuing exploratory fishing licences gives priority to First Nations. Documents were shared throughout the process and prior to the allocation meetings.

The development of the permit allocation criteria was based on an exhaustive consultation process with First Nations and associations representing commercial harvesters from Gaspésie, Magdalena Islands and North shore of Québec.

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.

A total of 76 exploratory permits were issued in 2025 for the first phase of the plan (including 4 exploratory permits that had been active since 2023). Depending on the results, a maximum of 30 additional permits could be added in subsequent years (phases II and III of the plan).

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.

D23 – North Atlantic Right Whale

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

Question 2: What is the impact of North Atlantic right whale entanglements on compliance with the United States Marine Mammal Protection Act and market access?

Question 3: How has the Department worked with harvesters to advance whalesafe gear?

Question 4: Will new science on threats to survival and recovery of North Atlantic right whales result in more restrictive management measures?

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.

The latest annual population estimate for North Atlantic right whales is approximately 384 individuals in 2024, up from the revised estimate of 376 individuals in 2023. This modest increase, along with gains since 2020, signals early signs of stabilization after years of decline. However, the species remains endangered with only about 72 breeding females. Continued efforts to reduce vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglements are essential to sustain recovery.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) implements world-class adaptive fishery management measures focused on preventingfishing 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).

On December 3-4 2025, the Georgia State Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) disentangled NARW 5217. The gear removed included colour marking consistent with the requirements for vertical lines in Canadian Crab Fishing Area 12. In accordance with the bilateral gear analysis protocol between DFO and NOAA, analysis of retrieved gear is underway by DFO Fisheries Resource Management to determine a conclusive link to a Canadian fishery, and whether the gear was reported lost. DFO will publish a final gear analysis on the DFO website.

D24 – Southern Resident Killer Whales

Question 1: How is DFO advancing the commitments made as part of the decision to decline the Emergency Order?

Southern Resident Killer Whale-directed Fisheries Measures

Marine Mammal Regulations Amendments to Increase Allowable Approach Distance to Southern Resident Killer Whale

Interim Noise Objectives

Background

Key threats to the recovery of Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW) include environmental contaminants, acoustic and physical disturbance (including vessel presence, noise and ship strikes), and reduced prey availability (including the abundance and accessibility of prey – primarily Chinook salmon). SRKW have been listed as Endangered under the Species at Risk Act since 2003.

Following an update to the 2018 Imminent Threat Assessment, responsible Ministers formed the opinion that Southern Resident Killer Whales continue to face Imminent Threats to their survival and recovery. Under section 80 of the Species at Risk Act, the Governor in Council may, on the recommendation of the competent ministers, make an Emergency Order to provide for the protection of a listed wildlife species. Competent ministers must make an Emergency Order recommendation if they are of the opinion that the species faces imminent threats to its survival or recovery, unless they are of the opinion that equivalent measures have been undertaken under another act of Parliament.

On June 6, 2024, Ecojustice, on behalf of six environmental non-government organizations, sent a letter to the Minister of Fisheries and the Minister of the Environment requesting that the Ministers recommend the making of an Emergency Order, to protect the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whale.

On March 6th, 2025, the Government of Canada declined the making of an Emergency Order, determining that the most effective approach is to continue to manage human activities using existing legislative tools (Fisheries Act, Canada Shipping Act, 2001) and non-regulatory measures.

This decision was informed by the purposes of SARA and the expected effectiveness of measures and activities that have been taken and continue to be taken by the Government of Canada and other organizations, consistent with the Recovery Strategy and Action Plan, to address the threats to SRKW and its critical habitat. The decision also took into account social, economic, policy and other factors, and the broader public interest.

Initiatives that address key threats to Southern Resident Killer Whales continue to be delivered through major commitments, such as the Whales Initiative and the Oceans Protection Plan. As part of the suite of SRKW management measures implemented since 2018, mandatory fishing closures and vessel measures, as well as additional voluntary measures, are in effect annually in SRKW key foraging areas and critical habitat to support the population’s recovery.

As part of the Emergency Order decision to address the imminent threats to SRKW survival and recovery, a number of new regulatory and non-regulatory measures were proposed to enhance existing protection measures. The scope and implementation of measures will be informed by consultation with directly affected First Nations, Wildlife Management Boards, industry stakeholders, and other affected parties.

D25 – Atlantic Seals

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

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

Question 3: What is the impact of seal predation on Northern cod and other fish stocks?

If pressed on species-specific impacts 

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 and 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 (16,890) of the sustainable harp seal harvest and two per cent (1,233) 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.

D26 – 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?

If pressed on the closure of biodiversity facilities:

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.

D27 – Pacific Salmon

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

Question 2: The Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative sunsets on March 31, 2026. What steps is Fisheries and Oceans Canada taking to renew it?

Question 3: What is the current status of Yukon salmon and Alaskan interceptions?

Question 4: How are Chinook stocks managed and assessed?

Question 5: What is the status of Fraser River Sockeye salmon? Why do forecasts change?

Question 6: Can an update be provided on the US-Canada Pacific Salmon Treaty?

Question 7: Why is DFO updating the Pacific Salmon Allocation Policy?

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.

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.

D28 – 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 and created mixed messages for Canadians. They also 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. Atlantic provinces, and aquaculture industry associations, have publicly requested renewal and enhancement of the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (by increasing the fund by 20 per cent) to help support aquaculture development in Atlantic Canada.

Through the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Minsters, eastern provinces have continued to highlight the need for a modernized Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program (CSSP) to better support the growth of the shellfish aquaculture sector. Further, the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA) has identified modernization of the CSSP as one of their top three priorities, given the perceived constraints that federal partners’ delivery challenges place on industry expansion.

D29 – 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 task force and speaking with First Nations communities directly to consider their unique circumstances, needs, and opportunities and challenges, as well as with other communities and stakeholders.

D30 – 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 the 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.

D31 – 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

The 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 Pacific First Nations and stakeholders on this via the West Coast Commercial Fisheries Modernization initiative, , 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) on the West Coast to address concerns regarding the distribution of benefits in commercial fisheries impacts on the economic viability of participation by active harvesters relative to other participants, 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.

E – Ecosystem Protection and Science

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?

Question 4: What is the Department doing to manage aquatic invasive species in British Columbia?

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.

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.

Since 2018, the Department has issued licences for the purpose of AIS control on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. The Department is preparing regional test cases for EGC use, which will be used to inform a cohesive national framework for the sale and use of marine invasive species. As an interim measure, the Department launched a 1-year commercial fishery in Southwest New Brunswick after which time it is expected to transition to AIS control licences as part of the framework.

E33 – Canada’s Marine Conservation Objectives and the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development Reports

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?

Question 3: How does the Department respond to the recommendations from the two audits by the Commissioner for the Environment and Sustainable Development?

Question 4: Are Canada’s conservation targets achievable? What barriers have hindered progress to conserve 25 per cent of Canada’s marine and coastal areas by December 2025, and what measures are being taken to conserve 30 per cent by 2030?

Question 5: What is the Department doing to address fishing industry concerns in the proposed South Coast Fjords National Marine Conservation Area?

Question 6: What impacts do Marine Protected Areas have on commercial fisheries, aquaculture facilities, and other ocean users?

Question 7: Is there a scientific basis for the Marine Conservation Target of 30 per cent by 2030?

Question 8: How do MPAs address the effects of a changing climate?

Background

The Department is working collaboratively with Parks Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and other federal departments to achieve the marine conservation target (MCT) of conserving 30 per cent of marine and coastal areas by 2030. Canada has made significant progress, moving from less than one per cent of marine and coastal areas conserved in 2015 to 15.55 per cent today—an area larger than France and the UK combined.

The approach continues to be guided by three foundational principles: science-based decision making; transparency that offers meaningful opportunities for input from site identification to establishment; and support for reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of Canada.  

Fisheries and Oceans Canada has established 14 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under the Oceans Act and recognized 61 marine refuges under the Fisheries Act as Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures.

In recent years, several new protected and conserved areas have been established, including:

New partnerships have been forged with Indigenous Peoples, and innovative financing opportunities have been leveraged to support Indigenous-led conservation and community well-being initiatives. For example, 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 Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) Agreement. In June 2024, Canada, BC, and 17 First Nations announced the signing of the Great Bear Sea PFP Agreement. The conservation plans associated with these agreements propose new protected and conserved areas that could contribute up to an additional 3.68 and 0.3 per cent, respectively, towards MCT.

Canada is recognized worldwide for its excellence in establishing and managing protected and conserved areas, so they are effective in achieving their conservation objectives and providing biodiversity outcomes. For example, Canada implements an MPA Protection Standard that is designed to provide a baseline protection in most new federal MPAs. Specifically, through the MPA Protection Standard the Government of Canada seeks 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 in these areas.

Issues raised by industry stakeholders
The fishing industry is concerned about the cumulative socio-economic impacts of conservation initiatives. They have been particularly vocal in opposition of Parks Canada’s proposed South Coast Fjords National Marine Conservation Area initiative in Newfoundland and Labrador, and sites advancing in BC’s Northern Shelf Bioregion. The Department consults extensively with partners and stakeholders, including marine industries, throughout the site establishment process to mitigate socio-economic impacts where possible.

Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development Audits
On November 6, 2025, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development (CESD) tabled the 2025 Fall performance audit reports in the House of Commons, including two audits involving DFO.

The Establishing Marine Protected and Conserved Areas report notes the good progress made on marine conservation, but that Canada is not on track to meet its target to conserve 25 per cent of marine and coastal areas by 2025. It calls for an updated federal collaborative framework, clarity on MPA Protection Standard implementation, and improved access to public data on protected and conserved areas.

The Federal-Indigenous Cooperatively Managed Protected Areas report, led by Parks Canada, recognizes strong collaboration between Parks Canada, DFO, and ECCC, with Indigenous partners in advancing reconciliation through co-management of protected areas. However, it highlights risks to this progress without sustained funding and calls on DFO to strengthen Indigenous engagement, particularly in issue resolution and recruitment for key DFO positions involved with cooperative management boards.

E34 – 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 Fisheries and Oceans Canada work to advance the review of other projects, not deemed in the national interest?

Question 3: What is causing longer timelines for Fisheries and Oceans Canada to authorize certain projects?

Question 4: What actions is Fisheries and Oceans Canada 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 in or near water (freshwater and marine) that could have impacts on 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 that provide guidance on how to avoid or mitigate risks to fish and fish habitat so that they do not have to apply to the Department for project review, and new Standards that provide clear mitigation guidance up front to make the regulatory process more efficient.

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 Office 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. 

The Budget Implementation Act proposes amendments to the Red Tape Reduction Act granting all federal departments—including DFO—new authority to issue Orders that exempt certain activities from existing regulations. For DFO, this would include the option to make exceptions to the regulations that set out application requirements for project proponents seeking a Fisheries Act authorization. The passage of these amendments would contribute to the implementation of the Government’s Building Canada Strong agenda by increasing the Department’s flexibility in the regulation of innovative projects and allow novel approaches to regulation in a controlled environment to be tested.

E35 – 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 43,300 units of gear, accounting for more than 2,540 tonnes of abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear removed from Canada’s waters, as well as over 970 km of rope. More than 3,500 dedicated gear retrieval trips have occurred as a result of the program.

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.

E36 – 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?

Question 3: What is the Department doing to address concerns about research security?

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 the Department’s existing network and contributes expertise that supports peer reviewed science advice.

External experts complement internal scientific capacity by increasing diversity of thought and expertise, which enhances the rigor of the peer reviewed advice. In line with standard practice for international science organizations, DFO may reimburse the travel expenses of experts from outside of the Government of Canada, who travel to in-person CSAS meetings.

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.

E37 – Oyster Diseases

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

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

Question 3: What are the resources available to harvesters impacted by the MSX?

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.

While both MSX and Dermo diseases pose no risks to human health or food safety, they are  serious diseases for American oysters.

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 fish for aquaculture purposes, are assessed by federal-provincial/territorial Introduction and Transfer Committees, which have representation from DFO and provincial/territorial governments.

In November 2025, the Prime Minister met with the Honourable Rob Lantz, Premier of Prince Edward Island, to discuss the impacts of MSX and Dermo on the oyster industry. The Prime Minister asked that the federal government partner with the provincial government on a stabilization program to provide support to the oyster industry.

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.

Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) Projects
The AFF directly supported projects targeting MSX and Dermo, in addition to 17 projects delivered through third party initiatives, including:

E38 – Great Lakes Fishery Commission and the Sea Lamprey Control Program

Question 1: The Order in Council makes it sound like a full transfer to Global Affairs. Why has Fisheries and Oceans received funds?

Question 2: How can we be assured that Fisheries and Oceans does not use funding intended for sea lamprey control for other purposes?

Question 3: Why can’t the sea lamprey control program and all the funding be transferred to Global Affairs?

Background

The Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC) was established by the 1954 Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries between the United States of America and Canada, with the objective of protecting and sustaining the Great Lakes fishery; specifically combatting invasive sea lamprey, conducting scientific research, and facilitating the cooperative management of the fisheries among federal, provincial, state, and Native American management agencies via the Joint Strategic Plan for Management of Great Lakes Fisheries (1992).

The GLFC is comprised of eight Commissioners, four appointed by each of the United States (US) and Canada. It receives financial support from both countries, as contracting parties. The Commission appoints an Executive Secretary and the Executive Secretary appoints the staff (Secretariat). The Executive Secretary supports the Parties in the ongoing work of the Commission. GLFC Commissioners provide direction to the Secretariat, including on measures to protect and restore the fishery and mitigate sea lamprey, an aquatic invasive species.

The delivery of a binational sea lamprey control program is highly collaborative recognizing the importance of aquatic invasive species control to protect this high value fishery to both nations. The Great Lakes Fishery Commission delivers its mandate for the control program by working with agencies of the US and Canada, namely, US Fish and Wildlife Service and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. GLFC has selected DFO as the Canadian delivery agent since the beginning and is happy with regional program delivery.

Budget 2022 increased Canada’s funding of the GLFC to $19.6M annually. With that increase, Canada is meeting its financial obligations to the GLFC. In October 2024, Ministerial responsibility of the GLFC file was transferred from DFO to Global Affairs Canada (GAC). The machinery of government change did not transfer control of all funding for this commission because GLFC has selected DFO as its Canadian delivery agent and under the Financial Administration Act, one department cannot have the funding for a program and staff in another Department. The GLFC Secretariat and some Canadian commissioners continue to lobby to have all funds transferred to GAC due to their ongoing concerns as to how DFO has managed the funds in the past.

In 2025-26, Parliament appropriated $8.5M of the $19.6M total to DFO for delivery of the sea lamprey control program. GAC received the remainder of the funding ($11.1M) and transferred $734,534 to DFO to make up the difference between what was provided to DFO and the $9.2M that GLFC approved for DFO in 2025-26 to deliver the program.

In Canada, the Province of Ontario regulates the commercial and recreational fisheries, requiring close cooperation between the two orders of government.

E39 – MSC Baltic III

Background

On February 15, 2025, the cargo ship MSC Baltic III lost power and ran aground 12 nautical miles outside the entrance to Bay of Islands, Newfoundland and Labrador. All 20 crew members were successfully airlifted from the vessel by the Canadian Armed Forces.

At the time of the incident, the ship was carrying approximately 1.5 million litres of heavy fuel and marine diesel and 471 shipping containers onboard. There are now currently 65 containers submerged or partially submerged on the vessel and estimated 50 m3 mixed oily water and 13.5 m3 of residual heavy fuel oil which continues to be monitored to ensure no environmental damage occurs and undue risks to the public.

The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) will be monitoring the MSC Baltic III throughout the winter months. Ballast water has been added to the vessel to help with stability, and hatches and doorways will be sealed to help prevent water from transferring throughout the vessel.  

The incident has garnered significant media attention and stakeholder concerns notably from the province, municipality, the Qalipu First Nation, and industry representatives such as the Fish Food and Allied Workers who are concerned about the risk of pollutants and the potential impact on the fisheries in the area.

Federal Roles and Responsibilities
CCG is the lead agency overseeing the operational response to the MSC Baltic III grounding, including coordinating all emergency actions under the Incident Command System, stabilizing the vessel to prevent further damage, managing pollution control and spill containment, and ensuring navigational safety. Additionally, CCG engages stakeholders such as provincial authorities and Indigenous communities to maintain transparency and safety throughout the incident.

Environment and Climate Change Canada serves as the lead authority for environmental pollution response in the MSC Baltic III incident. Its role includes providing expertise on pollution trajectory modeling, monitoring water quality and wildlife impacts, and advising on mitigation measures to protect sensitive ecosystems.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada provides specialized scientific and regulatory support focused on protecting marine ecosystems and minimizing socio-economic impacts, particularly on fisheries and coastal communities. This includes identifying marine sensitivities and fisheries data, advising on mitigation measures, and assessing potential impacts on fish and fish habitat.

F – Indigenous Rights and Reconciliation

F40 – Food, Social and Ceremonial Fisheries

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

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 longstanding 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.

Since 2022, the Department has been working on making improvements to FSC lobster management in the Maritimes Region, including via consultation with implicated First Nations. 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.

F41 – 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

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 longstanding 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.

Since 2022, the Department has been working on making improvements to FSC lobster management in the Maritimes Region, including via consultation with implicated First Nations. 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.

F42 – Fisheries Reconciliation Agreements in British Columbia

Question 1: How do fisheries reconciliation agreements impact fish stocks?

Question 2: What is the impact of First Nation fisheries agreements on commercial and recreational fisheries?

Background

Historically, the federal Comprehensive Land Claims Policy and Inherent Right Policy were the main negotiation processes for addressing outstanding issues relating to Aboriginal rights and title through treaty-making with Indigenous communities.

Since 2015, Canada has been working with many of its negotiating partners to explore new approaches and ways to reach agreements through Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination (RIRSD) discussions. The RIRSD process enables Canada and Indigenous communities 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.

Further, in 2019, the Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for Treaty Negotiations in British Columbia was co-developed by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia (BC) and the First Nations Summit. It is founded on section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The new Policy formally replaces the Comprehensive Land Claims and Inherent Right policies for treaty negotiations in BC, and enables incremental, flexible, innovative, and collaborative approaches to the negotiation of treaties and other arrangements, including fisheries reconciliation agreements, with First Nations in BC.

To date, four reconciliation agreements related to fisheries have been concluded in BC with 20 First Nations: the Coastal First Nations Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement (2021), Tsilhqot’in Nation Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement (2019 and renewed in 2024), the Heiltsuk Hailcistut Increment House Post Agreement (2019) and the Incremental Reconciliation Agreement for Fisheries Resources with Ahousaht, Ehattesaht/Chinekint, Hesquiaht, Mowachaht/Muchalaht and Tla’o’qui’aht Nations (2024).

In short term, DFO anticipates reaching nine additional fisheries reconciliation agreements with 13 First Nations in BC. These agreements are expected to strengthen nation-to-nation relationships between DFO and the 13 implicated communities, promote increased First Nations self-determination in fisheries management, and improve socio-economic outcomes for these communities by increasing their access to fisheries resources and promoting greater participation (including new jobs and training opportunities) in fisheries management and decision-making activities. Further, the agreements are expected to support increased stability and predictability in the fisheries sector.

Concluding fisheries reconciliation agreements supports Canada’s commitment to increase Indigenous long-term wealth, prosperity, and food security, and advance Indigenous self-determination. These agreements are aligned with the DFO-led Action Plan Measure 37 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Action Plan, which states that Canada will “in a manner that is measurable, enhance collaborative tools agreements and transparent approaches to better deliver on the collaborative design, development, delivery and management of fisheries, as well as conservation and protection of fish habitat.” DFO and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada will continue to pursue fisheries-related collaborative governance opportunities through nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, and government-to-government negotiations.

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