A group representing commercial fishers in Atlantic Canada filed a $10 million lawsuit in Nova Scotia Supreme Court.
The Unified Fisheries Conservation Alliance are seeking damages for alleged illegal lobster fishing at Saulnierville wharf in southwest Nova Scotia.
They’ve named a company in Shelburne County, as well as several individuals, accusing them of buying and selling the lobster.
UFCA president Colin Sproul says they hired private investigators to gather evidence.
“We should all be asking ourselves why the federal and provincial governments haven’t done the same thing. The answer is clear, a lack of will or intent,” said Sproul.
He says the lobster stock will take years to recover from out-of-season fishing.
He’s hoping Ottawa and the provinces will support the legal action.
Sproul says they continue to gather evidence.
“I’ve got a message for anyone in Atlantic Canada that’s taking part in this. We know who you are, we’re still collecting evidence, and you’re next.”
None of the allegations have been proven in court.
