Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to address the issue of whether fishing areas should be split into native and non-native areas.
We must all keep in mind that aboriginal groups and the commercial sector want the same things. They want a sustainable fishery, prosperity, and safe and vibrant communities. That is what the federal fisheries team is working toward. The government is working toward providing first nations with access through the issuance of commercial licences. These licences are subject to the same rules as all other commercial licences. There is no differentiation between aboriginal and non-aboriginal fishers.
We are not establishing separate fishing zones or different rules for different groups and will not do so unless all parties agree. Such a proposition is not the way to foster co-operation and coexistence. Creating two classes of fishers does not serve the purpose of managing fisheries resources.