Government of Canada announces Fish Harvester Benefit and Grant Program now open for applications
24 août 2020
Fish and seafood harvesters in Egmont help to drive the economy in this community. Canadians across the country have faced hardship due to COVID-19, and our fisheries have faced unique challenges that require direct solutions.
In May, the Government of Canada announced $469.4 million in funding to establish the new Fish Harvester Benefit and the new Fish Harvester Grant. This is the single largest investment in Canada’s fisheries in more than two decades. The Fish Harvester Benefit and Grant Program was designed to work within the unique pay structures and seasonal nature of the fishing sector. It will help to ensure that Canada’s hardworking fish harvesters get the financial support they need right now, while also positioning the sector for a strong recovery in the long-term.
On August 5, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Bernadette Jordan, announced that the Fish Harvester Benefit and Grant Program will open for applications from August 24, 2020 through to September 21, 2020.
The program is now open for applications and we invite all fish harvesters wishing to apply to visit the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/harvesters-pecheurs to determine if they are eligible, find out what documentation is required, and start the application process. For answers to your most Frequently Asked Questions, see here: bit.ly/2YDXq87.
“I’m pleased that our Government recognizes the importance of the fishery, the challenges they have endured this year, and the uncertain circumstances they faced going into this fishing season. I want to acknowledge the support that I received from my colleagues, the Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, to ensure that fishers in the off-season had access to EI benefits and financial assistance to cover lost income and expenses.”
- Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont
