Canada, France reach agreement-in-principle for 3Ps cod fishery

An agreement-in-principle has been reached between the Canadian and French governments regarding co-managed fish stocks, including cod in the 3Ps zone off the south coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, for the 2021 fishing season.

Under the Procès-Verbal Agreement signed in 1994, the two countries meet annually to negotiate management measures, including the total allowable catch (TAC) of shared stocks in the North Atlantic.

Both countries intend to support a TAC of 1,346 tonnes, a 50 per cent TAC reduction from last year.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada said that, given that the stock is in the critical zone, a TAC reduction is necessary. The reduced fishing effort will therefore allow the fishery to remain open, while promoting growth of the stock.

Furthermore, Canada and France have agreed in principle on a rollover of TACs for 3Ps Witch flounder, Unit 2 Redfish, and 3Ps Iceland scallop, and to maintain a moratorium for 3Ps American plaice.