First Nations Fishing Rights-Spawns Controversy/Consultation

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NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
Jan. 9, 2003
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries
Treaty Negotiations Office

PROVINCE TO CONSULT ON NEW APPROACH TO FISHERIES

VICTORIA - A provincial approach to fisheries within the context of treaty
making will be developed in consultation with fisheries stakeholders.
John van Dongen, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, and Geoff
Plant, Minister Responsible for Treaty Negotiations, made the announcement today.

Peter Pearse, an international natural resources consultant, has been
contracted by the province to meet with representatives from the commercial, recreational and fish processing sectors and others. Pearse met with a small group of stakeholders in December, and consultation will be broadened to a wider group as the work progresses. This input will help the province to develop a comprehensive strategy that supports the resolution of land claims and provides certainty for all involved in the fisheries in B.C.

"This is an opportunity for all users of the fisheries resource to express
their views and contribute to shaping the future of fisheries in B.C.," said
van Dongen. "Our aim is to have equal access that supports all fisheries and creates an integrated fishing sector."

The work follows cabinet's direction to have the provincial government begin negotiations with the federal government to develop a comprehensive strategy to secure equitable fishing arrangements for all participants and to make progress on treaty negotiations. It acts on the provincial government's New Era commitment to exert influence over fisheries to ensure that key provincial interests are met.

"Charting some new directions is essential to the economic viability and
sustainability of fisheries in B.C.," said Plant. "Canada must bring forth
a vision of how the resources will be shared between treaty groups, the
industry and recreational sectors, for the long-term benefit of all British
Columbians."

The consultations with stakeholders and Canada will take place over the next several months.

Pearse is a specialist in fisheries and resource management who has also
worked on treaty and governmental issues. He is a professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia and has conducted several public enquiries on natural resources in Canada.
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Mediacontact:Barb WrightSenior Public Affairs Officer
Agriculture, Food and Fisheries250 356-0269/ Cell 213-8824
Dave Townsend Public Affairs OfficerTreaty Negotiations Office250 356-9334/ Cell 889-5945