At his first campaign rally, Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed members of the Liberal Party at the Convention Centre in St. John’s, while fish harvesters protested outside the doors.
The protesting harvesters are affiliated with the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW). The issue is major cuts to harvesting snow crab in the 3K area and broader management of the sector by federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, a local Liberal MP.
The snow crab quota in the 3K division is losing almost a quarter of last year’s total allowable catch at 7,643 tonnes, down from 9,998 tonnes in 2024.
During his speech, Carney acknowledged the protesting harvesters, and said he is there to listen. He said his government, will take a closer look at the department of fisheries, and with the goal of creating a sustainable fishery — potentially restructuring the department.
Carney went on to announce a middle class tax cut, which he said will save Canadian families hundreds of dollars a year.
Carney has also addressed the threats of U.S. tariffs during his speech and said that voters want leadership that stands up for Canada.
He called Trump’s tariff and sovereignty threats the most serious crisis of our lifetime.
“We didn’t ask for this fight, but Canadians are always ready when someone dropped the gloves.”
“In this trade war, just like in hockey, we will win”
Carney said the U.S. wants Canadian land.
“They can’t have it,” he said to cheers from the audience.
He also spoke about supporting major infrastructure projects, including ones related to energy and critical minerals.
Carney made jabs at Conservative leader Pierre Polievere, calling his slogans and campaign ads negative.
He also said he has done more in 9 days then Polievere has done in his lifetime.
“I’m fighting for a strong economy,” said Carney. “For good Canadian healthcare…Good Canadian social programs.”
“So we can invest today in the jobs of the future and create a more sustainable world for our children and grandchildren.”
Fish Harvesters still protesting
As the event concludes, the police have the entire convention centre lobby blocked off. They’re asking Liberal attendees to leave through side entrances, guided by police.
FFAW has confirmed with reporters that the meeting with Joanne Thompson didn’t go well.
While the speech was ongoing, fish harvesters blocked the doors of the venue.
Ahead of the event, around 100 harvesters crowded into the Convention Centre lobby.
Thompson agreed to meet with three FFAW members, briefly diffusing the situation.
As a result, FFAW leadership told protesters to the leave the lobby and stay outside. FFAW President Dwan Street, along with harvesters Glen Newbury, Richard Gillett, Chad Payne, and Rodney Burton will be meeting with Thompson shortly.
However, FFAW representatives are now confirming that they aren’t happy following their meeting with Thompson.
Speaking earlier today, Street said she hoped that Thompson, a fellow Newfoundlander, would make decisions to benefit communities in her province.
“I have never in my life seen the shine come off a fisheries minister as fast as I have with Minister Thompson,” Street said.
FFAW In-shore president Jason Sullivan said the Liberals are killing rural Newfoundland.
“No one gives a f – – – about Newfoundland,” Sullivan told a crowd at a rally at a different location earlier on Sunday. “When you find carbon tax Carney this evening, you’ve got to show him you’re not weak.”
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