For Immediate Release,
June 2, 2026, St. John’s, NL –
The Association of Seafood Producers (ASP) strongly opposes Unifor’s application to the Canada Industrial Relations Board seeking the removal of Marine Atlantic’s essential service designation—an action that would permit significant reductions in ferry service to and from Newfoundland and Labrador.
Marine Atlantic is the backbone of the province’s supply chain. More than 95% of the $1.7 billion in seafood processed annually in Newfoundland and Labrador is shipped to global markets through this critical transportation link. Any reduction in ferry capacity or reliability would have immediate and severe consequences for harvesters, plant workers, processors, suppliers, and the rural communities whose livelihoods depend on the seafood industry.
The potential disruption is especially troubling given that the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW) representing the majority of fish harvesters and plant workers in the province is directly affiliated with Unifor. The application therefore risks undermining the very workers whose incomes rely on stable access to global markets.
“Marine Atlantic supports people and communities throughout this entire province. Any reduction of its designation as an essential service, doesn’t just delay shipments, it jeopardizes paycheques, business operations, and the stability of rural Newfoundland and
Labrador.” Lorelei Roberts, Executive Director
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Media Contact:
Association of Seafood Producers
709-726-3730
info@seafoodproducers.org
