The provinces Ministers of Fisheries and Justice in Nova Scotia are raising concerns about inadequate federal enforcement of the lobster fishery in the province, particularly in the southwest region. They have written letters to the federal government, specifically to Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier, expressing their concerns. They claim that there has been an increase in serious crime in the Clare and Meteghan areas, which they attribute to the lack of enforcement by the federal Fisheries Department. They state that this has allowed organized crime to terrorize the local community and have called for assistance from the federal government.
The inability of the federal Fisheries Department to prevent illegal and out-of-season lobster fishing has allegedly enabled and emboldened the growth of organized crime in the area, according to Fisheries Minister Kent Smith. He has heard directly from fishers who have been threatened and are afraid to speak out. Justice Minister Barbara Adams highlights that the provincial Justice Department has taken action by doubling the number of RCMP members in the Municipality of Clare, with the costs being borne by the province of Nova Scotia. This increased police presence is a response to the reported increase in serious crimes in the area, although none of the incidents have been directly linked to the fishery.
In recent months, RCMP in the Meteghan area have reported several violent crimes, including incidents of shots being fired at a home, arsons, and the burning of a police vehicle. While these incidents were not specifically linked to the fishery, the ministers suggest that the overall increase in serious crime in the region is a direct result of inadequate federal enforcement in the lobster fishery. The local community is feeling the impact of this rise in criminal activity, with organized crime reportedly causing fear and intimidation among fishers and residents in the area.
The letters sent by the Nova Scotia ministers to the federal government serve as a formal request for assistance in addressing the issues surrounding the lobster fishery and the rise in organized crime in the region. They are urging the federal Fisheries Minister to take action to strengthen enforcement measures and crack down on illegal fishing activities that are believed to be linked to organized crime. By highlighting the specific incidents and concerns in the Clare and Meteghan areas, the ministers are calling for immediate support and intervention from the federal government to help protect the local community and ensure the sustainability of the lobster fishery in the region.
The provincial government’s response to the increase in serious crime in the southwest region of Nova Scotia demonstrates their commitment to addressing the issues and protecting the safety and well-being of residents. The decision to increase police presence and take proactive measures to combat organized crime reflects their dedication to ensuring the rule of law and preventing further criminal activity in the area. By doubling the number of RCMP members in Clare, the provincial Justice Department is taking a proactive approach to addressing the concerns raised by the community and providing support to local law enforcement agencies.
Overall, the situation in Nova Scotia’s southwest region highlights the complex issues surrounding the lobster fishery and its impact on the local community. The concerns raised by the provinces Ministers of Fisheries and Justice underscore the need for stronger enforcement measures and intervention from the federal government to address the rise in organized crime and protect the livelihoods of fishers and residents in the area. It is essential for all levels of government to work together to address these issues and ensure the safety and sustainability of the lobster fishery in Nova Scotia’s southwest region.
