MLA statement on Canadian fishermen protests

Press release
For immediate release
August 8, 2012

For more information contact the Maine Lobstermen’s Association
MLA Statement on International Commerce in Maine Lobster

The Maine Lobstermen’s Association has been monitoring carefully recent disruptions
in the transport of Maine lobster across the US-Canadian border destined for Canadian
processing plants. MLA appreciates the attention of Canadian authorities to the situation
but is extremely concerned that efforts to block the movement of Maine lobster in
international commerce are continuing. The Maine Lobstermen’s Association is in
complete sympathy with the economic situation facing Canadian fishermen but strongly
rejects methods that disrupt, threaten, interfere with or otherwise impose obstacles on
international commerce.

MLA Executive Director Patrice McCarron explained, “Maine and Canadian lobster
industries have long shared a collaborative, constructive relationship that respects and
facilitates vigorous competition. The MLA urges protesting fishermen to end their
interference with shipments of Maine lobster and work to resolve their issues with
government and processing plants.”

If fishermen continue to threaten or interfere with shipment of Maine lobster, swift and
appropriate law enforcement action should be taken to end these protests. Open and fair trade between our countries is essential to the success of both lobster industries. The Maine Lobstermen’s Association calls on the Canadian government to act promptly and effectively to restore order.

Bill Trotter

About Bill Trotter

A news reporter in coastal Maine for more than 20 years, Bill Trotter writes about how the Atlantic Ocean and the state's iconic coastline help to shape the lives of coastal Maine residents and visitors. He writes about fisheries, marine-related topics, eastern coastal Maine communities and more for the BDN. He lives in Ellsworth. Follow him on Twitter at @billtrotter.