NDP MLA Sterling Belliveau met with staff from the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans last week regarding the plight of fish plant workers in southern Nova Scotia impacted by lower than normal catches.
"This meeting is one more step I've taken to bring the issue of low catches causing low hours to the forefront," said Belliveau. "I've corresponded with local MPs, MLAs, and the officials in Ottawa responsible for employment insurance."
When he first became aware of the issue in July, Belliveau said he started looking for possible solutions and help for the workers. In addition to meetings and correspondence, he said in a press release that he has been working with the provincial Department of Labour and Workforce Development on skills training and job creation initiatives. As well, the Shelburne MLA has been in conversation with processing plants in other parts of the province that are short labour to try to arrange for Southwest workers to get their hours elsewhere.
