By Andy Walker
FOR THE SOU’WESTER
Frustration has been a common emotion on boats at the wharf for Area 25 fishermen in P.E.I.
When the season opened on Aug. 9, fishermen had their fingers crossed for higher prices. The president of the P.E.I. Fishermen’s Association said there was a significant increase quality compared to last year.
“Inventory was said to be low and the economy is showing signs of improvement,” said Mike McGeoghegan. “There is no reason for this dramatic shortfall in price for the fall lobster season.”
Like their counterparts throughout North America, Island fishermen received depression-level prices in 2009, due largely to an economic downturn throughout the globe. For the first time, many fishermen began selling directly to the consumer after obtaining a peddlar’s license from the province.
That, coupled with an improving economy, saw prices improve to $3.50 for canners and $4 for markets this spring.
Fall fishermen were hoping their fishery would pick up at the same points. However, for the first three weeks the price averaged $3 for canners and $3.25 for markets. McGeoghegan added, “Fishermen do not feel that is a fair price. “
“Fishers are also questioning how the price of markets has dropped so significantly in comparison to canners over the past year,” he said.
Area 25 fishermen have seen a dramatic decrease in their catches over the last decade. While the situation has improved slightly over the past two years, the problem is particularly acute in the area between Borden and Egmont Bay.
Going into the season, there were indications prices looked favourable. The association president noted “quality has improved since last year, inventory is said to be low and the economy is showing signs of improvement. He added, “There is no reason for this dramatic shortfall in price for the fall lobster season.
“As catches decline, fishers are frustrated with waiting for the price to go back up,” McGeoghegan said. “Lobster fishers need immediate price increases and are aiming towards a minimum of the 2007-2008 price levels.”
As part of a rationalization plan, 34 licences were retired this year. As well, fishermen reduced the number of traps from 250 last year to 240.
