Marine Safety and the Atlantic Inshore Fishery

Proclamations of extended fisheries and economic zones raised expectations about increased prosperity and other benefits accruing from gaining control over larger areas of ocean space. This paper addresses some of the unanticipated consequences of expanded fisheries jurisdiction in Atlantic Canada-- increased competition in the domestic fishery, and greater risk taking by individual, small boat fishermen. Marine casualty statistics indicate that, despite improvements in fishing vessel design and improved services to aid fishermen, risk taking--particularly in the inshore sector--takes a heavy toll in lives and vessel losses. This paper addresses four dimensions of the inshore safety "problem": competition and risk taking; causes and consequences of fishing casualties; safety systems, services and equipment, and jurisdictional issues.