WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine), Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard, welcomed the decision by the U.S. Commerce Department to assess economic conditions in six Northeast fishing communities, including Portland. The Commerce Department has stated the purpose of the assessments is to meet with local leaders to identify economic development challenges and opportunities facing local industries and communities. “I commend the Department of Commerce’s decision to learn firsthand the challenges faced by our fishermen and communities,” said Senator Snowe. “I welcome any effort that will build on the progress we have made in the last year to expand Maine’s fishing industries.”
