Lobster Fishermen Protest in St. Andrews

The ships lining the Saint Andrews harbour are part of a peaceful protest. Generations both past and present are coming together, showing solidarity in the face of what they call illegal harvesting.

Nathalie Sturgeon – Local Journalism Initiative

The group of lobster fishermen, in partnership with the Fundy North Fishermen's Association, held the gathering on Saturday, September 14, 2024.

They allege there is a lack of presence by the Department and Fisheries officers, who are responsible for patrolling the waters and enforcing the rules.

Right now, it means traps are being set illegally, which carries heavy consequences for those who rely on this industry as their livelihood.

"It’s been reported by fishermen. It’s happening primarily in the western part of the district, but it happens all over, and with no patrol, that amplifies it," says Brad Small of Fundy North Fishermen's Association

Multiple fishermen called for the resignation of DFO Minister Diane Lebouthillier.

CHCO-TV has reached out to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and is awaiting a response.

But for many young fishermen, the time is now to protect their futures.

"I kind of just hope that the outcome of today lets me be able to fish for a long time and be able to retire with this job and hopefully my grandkids or children can fish if that’s what they decide they want to do," says Spiro Mawhinney, a seventh generation fisherperson.

Some fishermen say illegal harvesting can be hard to spot.

And the association warns tensions could rise should there be no action from the federal government.

"If the enforcement doesn’t continue, our fishermen have declared that they are going to have no choice but to take matters into their own hands and enforce the water themselves," says Amanda Johnson, Executive Director of the Fundy North Fishermen's Association.

She says that could mean things like removing illegal traps themselves, which might lead to violence and tension between those working on the water.

All those who spoke today say this is them taking a stance for the future of both the industry and the natural resources in the Bay of Fundy.