With illegal lobster poaching escalating in St. Mary’s Bay this summer, the Houston government needs to reinstate a zero-tolerance policy for illegal commercial purchasing of lobster.

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The Houston government is responsible for the licensing and sale of lobster in the province, but since coming into office, the lucrative lobster industry has been ignored. Enforcement staff have been under-resourced, allowing for illegal sales to increase throughout the summer.

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“Our lobster industry is a massive economic driver not only in Southwest Nova Scotia, but the entire province. The Houston government needs to take this issue more seriously by re-instating a zero-tolerance policy for illegal lobster purchasing and ensuring that resources are in place to enforce this growing issue,” said Opposition Leader Zach Churchill. “Action is needed now before this situation spirals out of control.”

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The problem is especially relevant in the Clare riding. Local MLA Ronnie LeBlanc says that in order for the situation to de-escalate, both the provincial and federal government need to work together to find a solution.

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“This is a matter of great importance here in my riding and I have not been satisfied with the hands-off approach taken by the Houston government,” said LeBlanc. “This problem will not be solved until everyone works together to adequately resource a strong enforcement unit that is dedicated to protecting our local fishing industry.”