Lobster fishers in Southwestern Nova Scotia are raising concerns about high fuel costs which could significantly increase their fuel bills for the upcoming season and squeeze their profits. While there’s many risks when it comes to lobster fishing, the financial risk this season is putting stress on an industry that is facing other rising costs as well, said Michael Larkin, a fishing captain and president of the Brazil Rock Lobster Association. “Last year my fuel expenses would have been around $30,000 for the six-month season,” said Larkin. “And that $30,000 will be more like $55,000 this year.” He estimates the cost for marine fuel at this time last year was around $1.26 per litre, and that’s now jumped to $2.30, meanwhile other costs are rising as well. “The price of rope has gone up, the price of traps has gone up,” said Larkin. “So has all the gear associated with fuel, and that’s put a strain on the finances.” Lobster fishing is the backbone of the coastal economy in Nova Scotia, where harvesting in Lobster Fishing Areas (LFA) 33 and 34 saw nearly $487 million worth of lobster landed last year. That’s nearly 22 tonnes of lobster. A big catch doesn’t guarantee a big profit for harvesters, and unlike some sectors, they can’t simply pass the increased costs down onto the consumers. “Consumers have choice and if lobster becomes too expensive, they can shift away to some other source of food or protein, like tuna or shrimp,” said Wilf Swartz, a marine affairs professor at Dalhousie University. The Lobster Council of Canada echoed the comment from Swartz, saying it’s a competitive global seafood market, and sometimes the cost of getting the lobster to market simply can’t be recovered. “Costs are very high for harvesters and plants alike, but we are faced with a market that does not care about our costs,” said Geoff Irvine, executive director with the Lobster Council of Canada. “There is significant effort to build demand and higher prices but there are many factors at play.” That leaves harvesters heading into waters along the southwestern shore with no guarantee they’ll make back the cost of what it takes to get out on the water. Larkin says some boats may have to change their approach and how often they head out to pull traps. He’d like to see the federal government offer a fuel rebate to help deal with the financial shock. “Any relief is welcome,” said Larkin. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
