The quota system was something that was suggested in the FRCC as a way to stop the investment in the competitive nature of the lobster fishery. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been invested by fishermen to increase capacity. As long as that's the model, it means that there's more pressure put on the stock. What they suggested was a quota system, but the trouble there is that we don't have the science to support it. There's no understanding of the relation between abundance of lobster and lobster recruitment.
There might have to be some other model contemplated. Individual transferable traps is one that was being considered. Another was TURFs, territorial-based management that would help create new incentives. These incentives would seek ways to cut costs, increase value, and expand net income. Right now, in some locations you need $3.80 a pound just to break even. That's too high in today's market, and even in better times it was a fairly low margin. We need to find a way to make this happen.
We agree with the Marshall decision. We have a legal obligation to consult with first nations, and we are doing so.