In a significant meeting today, the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW) is holding its Triannual Convention in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador. This gathering comes at a crucial time, as the past few years have brought unprecedented challenges to the fisheries sector, and members have a multitude of pressing issues to address.

Key Agenda Topics

Key topics on the agenda include growing concerns regarding corporate concentration within the Newfoundland and Labrador fishery. Many members are worried that this trend could threaten the livelihoods of local fishers and diminish their bargaining power. The union is actively exploring strategies to enhance processing capacity to better support the local economy and ensure that fishers' products are sustainably managed.

Collective Bargaining and Workers' Rights

Another important aspect of the convention is the union's push to reinitiate collective bargaining, which includes advocating for the right to strike. This is a critical point for many workers, as it affects their ability to negotiate fair wages and working conditions.

Ministerial Address

Among the notable speakers at the event is Fisheries Minister Gerry Byrne, who is set to deliver an address to the fishery workers today, highlighting the government’s perspective on current issues facing the industry and potential pathways forward.

Leadership Transition

In an exciting development, the incoming president, Dwan Street, will be sworn in tomorrow afternoon. This ceremony will mark her first official speech and is highly anticipated, especially as she takes over from retiring president Greg Pretty, who has guided the union through many changes.

Convention Venue and Importance

The convention is being held at the Quality Hotel in Gander, a fitting venue for discussions that aim to address the future of the fishery industry in the region, which is a vital component of Newfoundland and Labrador's economy and community identity. As the FFAW meets, all eyes are on the decisions made during this convention, as they will shape the trajectory of the fishery for years to come.