Lobster Agreement Reached With The Government of Canada & Nova Scotia’s Indigenous Communities

We’koqma’q First Nation joining Potlotek First Nation in fishing in pursuit of a moderate livelihood

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia – Building on the renewed understanding with Potlotek First Nation reached last month, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has reached an understanding with We’koqma’q First Nation that will see their members fishing jakej (lobster) in pursuit of a moderate livelihood and selling their catch in accordance with an amendment to We’koqma’q’s and Potlotek’s amended Netukulimk Livelihood Fisheries Plan and supported by a DFO-issued authorization. The plan was developed by the community with collaboration from Potlotek First Nation, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs and Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO).

We’koqma’q harvesters designated under Potlotek and We’koqma’q’s amended Netukulimk Livelihood Fisheries Plan and supported by the DFO authorization will fish during the established 2022 commercial seasons in Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 27 and 31A with a trap limit of 210 in each. These LFAs are within the Unama’ki District where We’koqma’q and Potlotek are located.

“Consistent, sustainable and collaborative fisheries arrangements are critical to achieving reconciliation and implementing treaty rights. I thank We’koqma’q, Chief Bernard-Daisley, KMKNO and all harvesters for their partnership throughout the discussions. I remain committed to reaching these understandings together, while ensuring the fishery remains sustainable and prosperous for all Cape Bretoners by not increasing fishing effort.” Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

“I wish We’koqma’q harvesters a safe and successful fishing season, and I want to thank Chief Bernard-Daisley for her collaboration throughout the discussions. This understanding recognizes the community’s right to fish for a moderate livelihood while ensuring the conservation of species all Cape Breton relies on. I look forward to our continued work together.” Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary

To provide access for We’koqma’q’s participation in the commercial lobster fishery without increasing overall effort, fishing access was offset by using existing banked licences and unfished traps across the entire Unama’ki District. The department remains committed to negotiating these understandings through the willing seller-willing buyer model.