Thank you, Mr. Chair. Good afternoon, and thank you for the opportunity to speak before you all today.

I'm Alberto Wareham, FCC chair, and president and CEO for Icewater Seafoods. As the national voice for commercial fishers in Canada, the Fisheries Council of Canada represents a diverse group of enterprises, from small family businesses to large processors and indigenous organizations, that are all contributing to the harvesting and processing of seafood across our three coasts. Collectively, our sector employs nearly 90,000 Canadians, contributes close to $9 billion annually to the GDP, and holds a global reputation for excellence in sustainable fisheries management, with Canada ranked second worldwide in sustainable certifications.

The Fisheries Act is the primary legislation affecting our members, and we appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the committee's review of the 2019 amendments. The Fisheries Council of Canada and its members were actively involved in the discussions leading up to the 2019 amendments to the Fisheries Act. These amendments were the product of extensive dialogue and compromises among all stakeholders.

A key outcome of these discussions was the inclusion of ministerial discretion, which allows for flexibility in adapting to changing environmental conditions and socio-economic factors. For instance, under the fishery stock provisions, fisheries are managed using the best available science. However, there are instances in which the science may be incomplete and ministerial discretion enables common sense decision-making to address such gaps.

With this context in mind, I would like to centre my remarks today on the importance of stability in the fishery sector and the pivotal role that thoughtful, collaborative and science-based policy-making plays in ensuring the long-term sustainability of this critical industry. Our members, like so many Canadians, have experienced the challenges that come with uncertainty. Inconsistent policies or abrupt changes can destabilize access, undermine investment and disrupt the livelihoods of thousands of individuals in sensitive coastal and indigenous communities.

Stability is not just a policy reference; it is a necessity for maintaining the resilience of our fishery sector and ensuring the socio-economic prosperity of the communities we serve. To this end, stability in access and allocations is foundational. Secure access enables businesses to invest with confidence in their operations, creating jobs, supporting local economies and advancing environmental sustainability.

Recent uncertainties in allocation decisions have eroded this stability for some stakeholders. FCC strongly advocates for transparent, consistent frameworks that recognize the importance of predictability in fostering long-term success.

Equally essential is the need for rigorous, well-funded fishery science. Science is the bedrock of effective fisheries management, ensuring that decisions are informed by robust data and evidence. It supports not only sustainability, but also market access, as our international reputation depends on science-driven stewardship. Addressing gaps in stock assessments, integrating ecosystem-based approaches and fostering indigenous co-management are all critical areas requiring attention and investment.

Marine conservation and sustainability are cornerstones of Canada's global leadership in fisheries. With 95% of our fisheries already managed sustainably, we must continue to balance conservation goals with the economic realities of those who depend on the ocean for their livelihoods. Policies should be guided by sound science and developed in close consultation with industry to avoid unintended consequences that could harm the communities they aim to protect.

Finally, the stability of our sector depends on its people. Labour challenges, including an aging workforce and shortages in remote areas, require immediate attention.

Effective policies are essential for fostering a healthy and vibrant Canadian fishing industry. They help attract and retain skilled workers while also enhancing the industry's resilience and long-term productivity. Getting this right requires ongoing dialogue and collaboration between all stakeholders.

In closing, FCC urges the government to prioritize collaboration with industry stakeholders in every step of the policy-making process. Stability and sustainability in Canada's fishery sector can be achieved only when policies are thoughtful, informed by science and designed to balance environmental, economic and social goals.

Consider us your boots on the ground. FCC members are ready and eager to help ensure that the Canadian fisheries industry thrives in these uncertain times. Thank you for your time and your commitment to advancing Canadian fisheries. I look forward to your questions.