When Gerry spoke to me the first time, I mentioned certain problems that I had with it, particularly the fact that we were addressing one particular case, that of Mr. Rhyno. At that time, Gerry mentioned that he could include management of the crab fishery in all areas, including area 12. That area concerns me in particular because it is affected by the 63% reduction. That has just happened. Furthermore, Quebec fishermen are going out to sea tonight. There is quite an impact related to that.
I have a great deal of difficulty supporting this kind of motion, for several reasons. First, I am under the impression that we are trying to explain or take into consideration the granting of a permit, in this case to Mr. Rhyno. The questions we are asking ourselves about this are probably justified and legitimate. I have few doubts about that. My problem is really on another level.
The last time we met, we were discussing future business and we were wondering what we would do about the aquaculture study and that on eco-certification. We thought that we would practically have to choose between the two because the aquaculture study is increasing in scope. At some point, we will have to choose. Given what is happening with aquaculture, I would choose that rather than eco-certification. In fact, I think that would affect everyone.
I was ready. At the beginning of the week, I told you how, in my opinion, we could undertake the aquaculture study. But at this point, I have the impression that we are facing a study of some magnitude. That is how I see it. I am also asking myself a lot of questions about management of the snow crab issue. I also have questions about the shrimp and even on the situation of the cod in the southern gulf region as opposed to the north. I have many questions about Fisheries and Oceans management practices in general.
Given what is happening and considering the priorities we established for ourselves as well as the issue I had agreed to collaborate on, I think that at some point in time we will have to review the way licensing works. Will it be within the context of our study on the new Fisheries Act, which is coming soon? That could be a timely opportunity to do so. It might be an idea to study Mr. Rhyno's case at that time. However, I have a lot of hesitations when I consider that happening within the framework of such a vast study. I'm telling you this in all honesty. This isn't a red herring—quite the contrary. The concerns regarding licensing that Gerry raised during a question to the minister are surely legitimate.
I had the impression that we could consider this from another angle. In that case, I would be ready to cooperate. As far as undertaking a major study, I think we will have to do it, but I am wondering if it must be done at this point in time in this way or in another way. I have many reservations.