An ongoing concern amongst harvesters is that raw material shares will eliminate competition for raw material and result in reduced prices. What will prevent this from happening?
We understand the concerns of crab harvesters about price competition. However, last year saw a much better price-to-market formula, which served harvesters well. A raw material sharing arrangement is contingent on such a formula being continued. Furthermore, we will be requiring processors to provide timely and accurate sales records, so that we can track the market price and ensure that harvesters are getting the prices to which they are entitled. Government is also considering changes to the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act to ensure that fair price arrangements can be collectively bargained and enforced. Finally, because fishermen still retain control over their own fish, processors will still see the need to maintain services to harvesters in order to secure raw material from their traditional suppliers.
