PEI

Hunter Tootoo a good choice for minister: P.E.I. Fishermen's Association

P.E.I. fishermen are pleased with the appointment of Nunavut MP Hunter Tootoo as the new federal fisheries minister, and look forward to a fresh take on the fishery from Tootoo.

Island fishermen believe he'll bring a fresh set of eyes

Hunter Tootoo is the first fisheries minister from the far north. (Sima Sahar Zerehi/CBC)

The head of the P.E.I. Fishermen's Association is pleased with the appointment of Nunavut MP Hunter Tootoo as the new federal fisheries minister.

Up until her defeat last month, Island fishermen had local Egmont MP Gail Shea as their minister.

While there were many benefits to that, association executive director Ian MacPherson said Island fishermen are looking forward to a fresh take on the fishery from Tootoo.

"I think Minister Tootoo is going to be someone coming in with a fresh set of eyes," said MacPherson.

"You know sometimes with the regional fishing issues, it is hard to get away from them, depending on where the MP could be located or the Minister located. And you know there are some things that need to be revisited and we think the Minister will come in with a fresh perspective, which should be great."

MacPherson said the association is eager to work with Tootoo and highlight the concerns of Island fishermen.

He pointed out that some species are up for review and reallocation.