ATLANTIC

P.E.I. requests extension to spring lobster season: minister

THE CANADIAN PRESS Published Tuesday, May 26, 2015 12:19PM ADT

Lobster fishermen load traps onto their boats at Jude's Point Wharf in Tignish, P.E.I. Saturday, April 30, 2011. (Nathan Rochford / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

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CHARLOTTETOWN -- Prince Edward Island's fisheries minister is requesting an extension to the spring lobster fishery.

Alan McIsaac says he made the request in a letter to federal Fisheries Minister Gail Shea.

McIsaac says an extension will have major benefits for fishermen and plant workers who should be given the opportunity to complete a full season.

Ice conditions delayed to opening of the season in two lobster fishing areas off the Island until May 8 and May 11 respectively.

McIsaac is requesting an extension of the season in LFA 24 on the north shore to July 8, and in LFA 26A in the eastern part of the Northumberland Strait to July 11.

He says the lobster fishery is important to the Island's economy and a shorter season could lead to reduced landings.