"People in this province have been talking about taking action against overfishing on the Grand Banks for decades," said Reid. "I believe the status quo can no longer be sustained and other options should be explored. The North Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) is doing nothing to protect the fish resource off our shores. In fact, the Government of Canada is paying dues to NAFO to support their structure and policies that are raping the ocean floor.

"The recent example of Denmark objecting to the quota set by NAFO and fishing an arbitrary quota of their choice is unfortunate, but not uncommon. This is just one example that demonstrates how the structure of NAFO is not for the benefit of the resource or the future of Newfoundland and Labrador."

The Liberal MHA feels that making representation to NAFO countries is not an option at this point in time and real action must be taken. "I, like others before me, have traveled to NAFO meetings in Europe and our concerns have fallen on deaf ears. In order to effect real change, the province must press the Government of Canada to take a clear stand by pulling out of NAFO in protest and establishing custodial management of the nose and tail of the Grand Banks and the Flemish Cap."