Last year, we made some policy changes. We talked with lobster fishermen about reducing the number of boats and fishing licences in each zone. But, clearly, those changes are not enough. In the 2009 season, there will be too many fishermen, costs will be too high and the price will be too low. We could perhaps find a way to bring down the level, to have less intensive fishing and to let the fish processing plants provide product for retailers, for stores. It is possible to sell lobster meat in stores, but not in restaurants and other places where food costs have dropped by 50%. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find quick solutions, even though they are needed. The only way to do anything is to talk to fishermen and to find a way to let the processing plants produce fish for stores.
On March 24th, 2009. See this statement in context.