The following statement was issued today by the Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture:

“I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the Eastern Pride crew member who passed away while onboard the fishing vessel, which ran aground near Cox’s Cove on December 1. To his fellow crew members who have lost a trusted and treasured friend – please know we are very thankful you are safe, and truly sorry for your loss.

Work on the sea is part of the lifeblood of Newfoundland and Labrador, and tragic events like this are a harsh reminder of the risks involved in this challenging but vital profession.

When the call sounded on Tuesday morning, fellow harvesters were quickly on the scene to lend their assistance to a crew in distress. My heartfelt thanks to them for quickly coming to the Eastern Pride’s aid, and to the crew of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Cape Fox for their timely response.

The bonds of friendship and caring are strong in our fishing communities, and we all share in this loss of a trusted friend and crew member.”

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Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca