France and Canada have reached an agreement on the distribution of the Atlantic halibut quota ensuring sustainable management of the stock
France and Canada have reached a landmark agreement on the division of Atlantic halibut quotas following discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
This agreement marks the culmination of negotiations that began in 2016 and have intensified over the past 18 months. The French government praised the deal, emphasising its alignment with France’s interests and its consideration of the specific needs of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
Key Elements of the Agreement:
1. Promoting Sustainable Fishing:
The agreement aims to enhance the sustainability of Atlantic halibut fishing, particularly as the species migrates between French, Canadian, and international waters. Drawing on lessons from the collapse of cod stocks in the 1980s and 1990s due to a lack of cooperation between states, this deal is seen as crucial for protecting the environment and ensuring the long-term viability of fish stocks. After this initial step, the goal is to expand the agreement to include other countries fishing Atlantic halibut in the waters of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO).
2. Boosting Economic Development in Saint Pierre and Miquelon:
Under the agreement, France will receive 3% of the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for Atlantic halibut, equating to 147 tonnes for the 2024-25 fishing season. This allocation is higher than France’s historical average, offering new opportunities for local fishing professionals and contributing to the economic growth of the archipelago. Additionally, French vessels will be permitted to land their halibut catches in Canadian ports, and bycatch of Atlantic halibut in Canadian waters will also be allowed under the 1972 France-Canada Fishing Agreement.
3. Strengthening Scientific Cooperation:
The deal includes provisions for increased scientific collaboration between France and Canada to improve knowledge of this high-value species.
The agreement is set to last indefinitely, with the option for either party to request a review every three years.
Fabrice Loher, France’s Minister for the Sea and Fisheries, celebrated the conclusion of the negotiations:
“I welcome the successful outcome of these negotiations on Atlantic halibut, which have involved numerous discussions between France and Canada. I would like to thank the French delegation for their exemplary cooperation, including contributions from state services, local officials, and the fishing professionals of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, with the support of Ifremer scientists. This agreement respects the interests of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, promotes sustainable fishing of this valuable species, and enhances scientific understanding.”
“I am pleased with the outcomes of our negotiations with France,” said Diane Lebouthillier Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. “I am confident that we’ve reached an equitable agreement that will ensure the long-term health of the Atlantic halibut stock while supporting the economies and coastal communities of both Canada and France.”
The agreement is seen as a significant achievement for both countries, ensuring the sustainability of Atlantic halibut fishing while supporting economic growth in Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
Source: Press Release
https://mer.gouv.fr/gestion-du-fletan-blanc-aboutissement-des-negociations-entre-la-france-et-le-canada