A Tightrope Walk in the Halibut Fishery
After just one year under the new Fisheries Act, a 75 percent exploitation obligation has been implemented in the halibut fishery, marking a significant shift in policy that aligns with the PNNP guidelines. This rule mandates that fishermen utilize at least three-quarters of their annual quota. If a fisherman fails to meet this requirement for three consecutive years, the quotas will be reallocated. Any unused quotas will subsequently be assumed by the Naalakkersuisut and made available to those in need.
The intent behind this approach is clear: to facilitate the sale of surplus quotas to those who find themselves short, ensuring that annual allowance usage is maximized.
However, this measure hasn’t come without its critics. At the end of last year, both KNAPK and SQAPK—the main fishermen and trappers’ organizations—voiced their concerns, arguing for a reassessment of the law. In response to these challenges, Peter Borg, a member of the Naalakkersuisut responsible for Fisheries, Catching, Agriculture, and Self-sufficiency, offered a firm stance. He expressed that now is not the right time for a legal overhaul.
The Time Is Not Ripe for Change
Borg emphasized the ongoing dialogue between the Naalakkersuisut and fishing organizations, stating he anticipates these conversations will continue. “If you fail to utilize 75 percent of your quota for three consecutive years, you will need to adjust your quota share,” he noted, adding that the law incorporates flexibility for unfortunate circumstances—such as illness or accidents—that might hinder quota utilization.
Despite the criticism, Borg reiterated that the Naalakkersuisut prefers to monitor the situation further before making any amendments. “Now that the law has only been in effect for a year, we want to see how things develop,” he said.
Rising Concerns
This past year has seen an abundance of cod along the coast, prompting many halibut fishermen to shift their focus. Pele Blystmann, chairman of KNAPK, pointed out that soaring prices for cod have led many to prioritize this fish instead. “If the trend continues, many will struggle to meet that 75 percent minimum for halibut, risking their quotas—a situation we find unacceptable,” he warned.
Blystmann expressed disappointment at the lack of responsiveness from the Naalakkersuisut regarding their requests to reevaluate the 75 percent obligation. “We reached out at the end of last year, but we’re still waiting for a reply,” he lamented.
As the fishing community grapples with these challenges, one thing remains clear: navigating the regulatory landscape will require careful consideration and ongoing dialogue if the interests of fishermen are to be adequately represented and addressed.