Mr. Speaker, the minister of fisheries has taken a very strong stand on behalf of the east coast turbot fishery. For that he is to be applauded. While he goes to the wall to save the turbot, I urge him not to forget the other coast of Canada.
The recent Fraser report and the Suzuki Foundation report point out that the five species of British Columbia salmon are at high risk due to overfishing and habitat loss. The report reveals that many more serious issues face the west coast salmon fishery and identifies specific initiatives requiring immediate action.
Our west coast salmon fishery is still a viable fishery. To ensure that it remains viable, it requires immediate attention.
It was a lack of proper management that placed the west coast salmon fishery at risk. I urge the minister of fisheries to give the time, energy and support to the west coast that he has so generously given to the east coast.