The Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW-Unifor), along with project partners the Professional Fish Harvesters Certification Board (PFHCB) and the Newfoundland and Labrador Fish Harvesting Safety Association (NL-FHSA), recently announced the launch of the Fishing Industry New Entrants Initiative (FINEI).
Funded through the Newfoundland and Labrador Government’s Labour Market Partnerships Program, FINEI aims to address the growing need for recruitment and retention of owner-operators and crew members in the inshore fishing industry.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s inshore fishery is facing significant demographic challenges. Approximately one-third of certified fish harvesters are over the age of 54, with many expected to retire within the next decade. Without a steady influx of new entrants, many fishing enterprises may face succession challenges, potentially affecting seafood production, employment opportunities, and the sustainability of coastal communities that depend on the fishery.
“The funding comes at a pivotal time when our inshore fishery is facing serious demographic challenges due to an aging workforce. The government’s investment in this project is a strong signal that they’re committed to protecting our fishery for the future,” said FFAW-Unifor President Dwan Street.
“With project funding exceeding $1.2 million, the provincial government’s investment will allow for significantly increased engagement with secondary schools, trade schools and new Canadian associations.”
FFAW-Unifor’s Young Harvesters Committee, established in late 2025, will help oversee the project alongside a governance committee and a dedicated project coordinator.
“A career in the fishery offers more than just a job. It’s an opportunity to be part of an industry that feeds the world while making the ocean your workplace,” said Alicia Warford, fish harvester from Petty Harbour and Young Harvester Committee member.
“With the ocean as your workplace, no two days are the same, each with its own challenges and opportunities. Some of the most valuable lessons I have learned over the years have been learned on the deck of a boat.”
Informed by a comprehensive Labour Market Assessment and with input from the Young Harvesters Committee, FINEI will establish a New Harvesters Network for the province and hold annual in-person Summits for the life of the three-year project.
The project also includes a multimedia marketing campaign. The FINEI project will educate folks on the benefits of a career in the fishery, such as freedom to be your own boss, to enjoy the outdoors, and to bring home a good income.
“The fishery has long been the cornerstone of communities throughout the province, and ensuring its future depends on attracting and supporting the next generation of harvesters,” said Mark Dolomount, the now former Professional Fish Harvesters Certification Board executive director.
“This initiative is an important and much-needed step in promoting the fishing industry as a viable and rewarding career path, while also helping address the labour and succession challenges facing the sector today.”
Through collaboration with NL-FHSA, prospects will also be educated on ocean safety, training opportunities, equipment and programming. Craig Parsons, executive director, said, “the NL-FHSA is proud to be partnered with a project that provides new entrants with specialized training designed to address the unique challenges and needs of the fish harvesting industry.” He mentioned the vitality of new entrants to shaping the industry’s future safety culture, building a stronger, safer workforce for generations to come.
“The inshore fishery remains the backbone of coastal economies throughout our province. It’s an opportunity to keep young people in their communities and to build a sustainable future for the next generation,” added Street.
