Allocation of Pacific Halibut to Sport Fishing Sector

WHEREAS the current federal allocation of the sustainable pacific halibut resource is insufficient to provide reasonable catch and possession limits for the recreational and commercial sport fishery; AND WHEREAS an increase in daily catch and possession limits would be of great benefit in attracting sport fishing tourists to coastal communities: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM call on the provincial and federal governments to support both the commercial fishing industry and the sports fishing industry equitably as they are both critical economic generators for residents within the province; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that DFO undertake further research and analysis on the Pacific halibut fishery with a view to ensuring that the right balance between the sectors is achieved while maintaining the sustainability of the fishery.