The federal government offers wild oyster harvesters in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island $40,000 to permanently retire their fishing licences. This voluntary buyback program supports fishers affected by the spread of two severe diseases in Atlantic Canada.

Protecting Wild Oyster Populations

According to a recent report from CBC News, the diseases MSX and dermo severely impact wild oyster populations across the region. The buyback program provides financial support to affected harvesters while reducing pressure on the remaining wild oyster stocks.

Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson acknowledges the difficulty of the situation for local fishers.

“I know this is a hard moment for the people who make their living on the water. For harvesters who decide the time is right to permanently retire a licence or permit, this program is there to support that decision,” Thompson said. “It also takes pressure off the wild population while our scientists keep working on the diseases. These are small operations in small communities, and they need a path forward.”

Program Eligibility and Details

You qualify for the program if you hold an active wild oyster licence. This includes spring permits, fall licences and mollusk unspecified permits. Applications open in September. The federal government releases more information in the coming weeks.

When the government approves your application, you permanently give up your wild oyster fishing access. You also lose the ability to obtain new oyster fishing access for 10 years.

The federal government originally announced this initiative in May as part of a broader support package for the oyster industry. They committed $6 million to fund this one time program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for the buyback program?

Active wild oyster licence holders in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island qualify. This includes those with spring permits, fall licences or mollusk unspecified permits.

How much compensation is available?

Eligible harvesters receive $40,000 to retire their licences.

What are the conditions of accepting the buyout?

You must permanently surrender your wild oyster fishing access. You lose the ability to obtain new oyster fishing access for 10 years.

When do applications open?

The application process opens in September.

Why is the government buying back licences?

The program provides financial support to harvesters affected by the MSX and dermo diseases while reducing fishing pressure on the vulnerable wild oyster population.