Pallone Reacts to NMFS Statement on Catch Shares Despite Congressional Disapproval

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-6) a long-time advocate for fishermen, spoke out against a recent National Marine Fisheries Services ruling that would allow the agency to circumvent a block on catch share programs through the end of fiscal year 2011. Despite Congressional objections to catch share programs because they threaten the vitality of the fishing industry, NMFS has stated that they may continue to allocate resources and time to the development of catch share programs.

Congress recently approved a block on funding to approve catch share programs as part of the agreement on the continuing resolution that funded government operations through the end of FY11 and prevented a government shutdown. NMFS also argues that certain catch share programs are exempted from Congress’ funding block.

“When the Congress and President come to an agreement and say you cannot use funding to approve a particular program, it’s time to move on and concentrate on other priorities,” said Pallone.

In a bi-partisan effort to prevent the expansion of new catch share programs, Pallone fought for the inclusion of the prohibition on funds for catch shares. This effort is key in preserving jobs for fishermen in areas of the South Atlantic, Mid-Atlantic, New England or the Gulf of Mexico for the remainder of FY11.

“It’s no secret that catch shares are designed to put the fishing industry in a choke hold,” said Pallone. “We need programs that gather and rely on the best possible scientific data and that prioritize keeping fisheries open. NOAA’s catch shares program fails fishermen and it’s time to change that.”

In a late night speech on the House floor in February, Pallone urged other members to oppose catch shares, contributing to the recent approval of the provision.

Pallone continues to pursue a more permanent alternative to restrictive catch shares. At a recent Natural Resources Committee hearing, he questioned NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco and National Marine Fisheries Services Assistant Administrator Eric Swaab on the Administration’s FY 12 budget priorities and catch shares plan.

“My district has thousands of private anglers who support local small businesses and drive the coastal economy of my home state. Your budget pressures the Mid-Atlantic Regional Fisheries Management Council and other regional management councils to adopt catch shares to get at the much needed funding that provides the information that keeps fisheries open,” Pallone said to Swaab and Lubchenko at the hearing.