Mr. Speaker, let me put this as simply as I can. We are adopting a common sense approach that focuses on managing threats to Canada's commercial, recreational, and aboriginal fisheries. We are doing that with the amended act, which prohibits serious harm to fish that are part of these fisheries and the fish that support them—which might not be eaten by humans—and protects the habitat on which they depend, including in the marine environment.
To focus our resources most effectively, we are drawing clear distinctions between different types and sizes of projects. We are taking into account the potential impact on the sustainability and ongoing productivity of our fisheries. We make no apology for making our highest priority the ongoing productivity of our commercial, recreational, and aboriginal fisheries.
As I have already said, now that we have put the rules in place, we will continue our work with partners and stakeholders to develop the regulations, policies, and other tools to effectively implement these amendments.
