After a scientific review of the 2J3KL Northern cod stock off the northeast coast of the province, Fisheries and Oceans Canada says the stock is now considered to be above the Critical Zone and in the Cautious Zone.

“Based on reports from the 2023 Stewardship Fishery, we are cautiously optimistic that the upcoming DFO research vessel survey may confirm a continued rebuilding of this stock,” said Alberto Wareham, President of Icewater Seafoods, a family company that is the largest cod processor in Canada.

Premier Andrew Furey and Minister Elvis Loveless also weighed in on the new assessment model, saying government was pleased to play a part in developing this model, and say they will continue to monitor developments and participate in ongoing fishery management meetings for the 2J3KL Northern cod stock.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada has indicated that the next assessment will be in March 2024, and both Furey and Loveless say they are cautiously optimistic that it can be determined that the Northern cod will remain in the cautious zone and out of moratorium.