Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Fisheries and Oceans Canada has informed about the last major case investigation in Nova Scotia halibut fishery which has concluded in fines consisting of more than $260,000 and licenses suspension.
The prosecution has included a 24-month major case investigation into the halibut fishery in the Sambro area of Nova Scotia and the last sentence was given on February 6.
The four trials concluded with five individuals and three companies convicted of 18 violations of the Fisheries Act and Regulations.
The charges have been described as "failing to have catch verified by a dockside observer and giving inaccurate catch information to land more halibut than was allowed in the conditions of the license."
Along with the economic fines, an individual received a 60-day license suspension during which they could not fish or renew their license.
According to the government institution, another individual received a six-month license suspension, during which they were prohibited from boarding a commercial fishing vessel in Canadian or American waters. From possessing or acquiring any interest in a fishing vessel or license and finally from possessing commercial fishing gear of any kind.
License suspensions represent expensive consequences for harvesters as generating less income by fishing. This usually happens during periods when fishing is most profitable.