The Fish, Food & Allied Workers union in Newfoundland and Labrador has halted snow crab processing until a satisfactory pricing agreement is reached. The union refused to engage in negotiations with processors and rejected their offer, which was three cents lower than last year’s price of $5.25 per pound. FFAW-Unifor President Dwan Street emphasized that crab processing will not resume until a fair price is established, ensuring members receive their rightful share. The Association of Seafood Producers has been contacted for a response.
The ongoing conflict occurs as the crab fishery is set to begin on April 5, with a looming deadline to determine the price. Despite attempts to negotiate, the matter has been referred to a standing fish price setting panel for a binding decision. Premier Tony Wakeham intervened to delay a planned protest by the union, prompting a 48-hour postponement of the panel meeting. The FFAW did not participate in the panel hearing on Wednesday, expressing discontent with the arbitration process to set prices.
In response, FFAW representatives have advocated for a return to traditional negotiation methods rather than binding arbitration. Conversely, ASP executive director Lorelei Roberts stated that the FFAW had declined to negotiate and did not respond to ASP’s initial offer. Roberts mentioned ongoing attempts to engage the union through a price bargaining facilitator, highlighting the need for constructive dialogue to resolve the pricing dispute.