The federal fisheries minister is not surprised with the poor state of cod stocks off the province’s south coast.
Friday ‘s assessment on cod in area 3Ps recommended that harvesting pressure be kept to a minimum, something with which MP Joanne Thompson agrees.
Changing environmental factors including warming waters are believed to be a significant factor in keeping spawning rates low.
Minister Thompson says while it’s disappointing, it’s important to listen to the science.
“We can’t put any more undue pressure on the stock, so I don’t see changing the current plan at this point,” says Thompson.
