NL Fish Harvesters Reach Agreement, Ending Protest That Paralyzed Government

Fish harvesters who protested outside the Newfoundland and Labrador legislature this week have reached an agreement with the provincial fisheries minister and have ended their demonstration.

John Efford, the fisherman leading the demonstrations, stated that the province has agreed to implement changes that will enhance competition among processors and make it simpler for the province’s fishers to make a living.

The Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union, which represents inshore fishers, is hailing the agreement as a victory that will enhance market access for harvesters.

According to the union’s statement, the government has agreed to permit fishers to sell their catch to buyers from outside the province, a key demand made by the protesters.

The agreement was finalized during a meeting between Mr. Efford, union executive members, and provincial Fisheries Minister Elvis Loveless, who believes that the new arrangement will benefit everyone in the province, particularly those in rural communities.

The meeting followed a situation where hundreds of harvesters prevented government employees from entering the legislature on March 20, leading to the government postponing the unveiling of its budget by a day.

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