Many minor fishing violations, such as failure to carry or produce a licence, currently involve charges and court appearances. (Photo: Stock File)
DFO seeks to apply fines instead of charges for minor fisheries violations
CANADA
Friday, December 15, 2017, 02:40 (GMT + 9)
As part of its enforcement approach, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is currently seeking the public’s opinion on its plans to expand the use of tickets for minor fishing violations.
This regime would mean fixed fines for minor commercial and recreational fishing violations instead of charges and court appearances.
DFO explains that many minor fishing violations, such as failure to carry or produce a licence, currently involve charges and court appearances, which are often disproportionate, burdensome and stressful experiences for citizens.
DFO plans to seek regulatory amendments to expand the use of ticketing under the Contraventions Act for various minor regulations offences that fall under the Fisheries Act. An updated ticketing regime will enable citizens to instead pay a predetermined fine for minor commercial and recreational fishing infractions. This initiative will allow DFO Fishery Officers to devote more of their time and efforts to high priority files in their important work of conservation and protection of Canada’s fisheries.
The Government of Canada highlights that is committed to open and transparent communication and consulting with Indigenous groups, stakeholders and the public, on the proposed expanded use of ticketing for minor fisheries violations.
DFO online consultations on this issue are currently open and welcome the views of all Canadians on the Department’s proposed updated ticketing regime. Consultations will continue until January 31, 2018.
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