Island lobster season opens tomorrow

Islanders and fishers are ready for the opening of Prince Edward Island’s spring lobster season tomorrow as the province moves through the Renew PEI, Together phase of the pandemic. 

“Our Island fishing and aquaculture sectors have long played a vital role in contributing to our Island economy and communities, and I am proud of how we have worked together so we can have a setting day in spite of COVID-19. Our seafood products are world class, and, as economies open up, I am confident that our industry will persevere through these challenging times. I wish our lobster fishers and their families much success as they head out onto the waters tomorrow morning.”  

- Fisheries and Communities Minister Jamie Fox

Prince Edward Island’s seafood sector is a key driver of the province’s economy and is valued at more than $600 million annually. The province has been working with industry, public health, regional counterparts and the federal government to find a way to safely hold a spring fishing season in the midst of the global pandemic while also offering relief packages to help fisheries and aquaculture operators navigate the changing market conditions and other economic challenges related to COVID-19.

“Fishers never really know ahead of time how a season will go and that is particularly true this year,” said Minister Fox. “My hope is for Island fishers and aquaculturists to have a strong 2020 season, but we know that this will be a challenging year. The best way to show our support this year is by buying and enjoying Island seafood.” 

The fishing industry has worked closely with the Chief Public Health Office to ensure health and safety precautions and guidelines are in place to protect fishers, their coworkers and the community from COVID-19 during the spring season.  

“I know all Islanders will be rooting for fishers as they head out on their boats on setting day. This year, Islanders are asked to follow public health measures and hold off on going down to the local wharf or harbour this year. Let’s find new ways of encouraging fishers and aquaculture operators while giving them the space and peace of mind that they need to conduct their business safely,” added Minister Fox. 

Media Contact:
Ron Ryder
Department of Fisheries and Communities
902-314-6367
rrryder@gov.pe.ca