FALL RIVER, NS – Last year, the Conservative government promised stakeholders in the Pacific Salmon Treaty that Parliamentary hearings would be held prior to the signing of the treaty. Former Fisheries and Oceans Minister Loyola Hearn told the House of Commons that an open and transparent discussion would take place before the signing.

However, it now appears that Fisheries and Oceans Minister Gail Shea is planning to sign the Pacific Salmon Treaty before the return of Parliament.

New Democrat Fisheries and Oceans critic Peter Stoffer says this is unacceptable. “The government should not be signing such significant pieces of legislation while Parliament is prorogued,” says Stoffer. “They promised to allow stakeholders to have their say before the treaty was signed and it is unacceptable for them to go back on their word.”

Stoffer has sent a letter to Gail Shea asking her not to sign the treaty until after Parliament has resumed and the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans will be able to hear from the fisherman, First Nations and communities whose lives and livelihoods this treaty will affect.

The Honourable Gail Shea
Minister of Fisheries & Oceans
Suite 1570-200 Kent Street
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0E6

Minister Shea,

It has come to my attention that the Pacific Salmon Treaty will be signed prior to the end of 2008.

I urge you not to sign this treaty until after the House of Commons re-convenes on January 26, 2009. This short delay will allow the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans, and indeed all Members of Parliament, to give constructive input prior to the signing of such an important piece of legislation.

Our Fisheries and Oceans management authorities would subsequently have a more comprehensive understanding of how to implement of the new Pacific Salmon Treaty.

I await your reply.

Peter Stoffer,MP
Sackville-Eastern Shore
PS/er/CEP 232