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Dumping Day delayed for LFA 34, government urges safety as lobster fishing season kicks off

By Caitlin Snow Nov 27, 2023 | 1:09 PM

Another delay for Dumping Day in LFA 34 which spans from Shelburne County to Digby County.

According to the Coldwater Lobster Association, a vote of 14-2 determined a ‘no go’ for Tuesday.

They say Environment Canada’s Marine Weather Forecast shows up to 30 knots of wind tomorrow afternoon and 2-3 meter waves.

The next call will be made Tuesday morning.

Meanwhile, LFA 33, from Cow Bay to Shelburne County set their traps yesterday for the kickoff to lobster fishing season in Nova Scotia.

Government Urges Safety

“As lobster season begins, safety is a big concern for fishers and their families. Inspecting equipment, monitoring the weather and putting on personal flotation devices are all important steps to take before crews head out to sea,” said Jill Balser, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration. “I wish all lobster harvesters a prosperous and safe season.”

Occupational health and safety laws require all crew members to wear a life jacket or other personal flotation device.

The government is also reminding fishers about hoist safety this season. Hoists are high-risk equipment that can injure or kill workers if they fail. Fishers are required to conduct a formal, written inspection of hoists annually and conduct a visual inspection of all hoist and rigging equipment before each use.

The safety branch of the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration will be working with its partners at Fish Safe NS, the Nova Scotia Fisheries Sector Council and workplaces around the province to ensure the fishing industry understands their safety roles, responsibilities and general compliance requirements.