January 23, 2013 — Congress has lost substantial institutional history and knowledge about the complex issues facing our nation’s fishermen and fishing communities. The leadership void on this issue leaves us in the industry wondering who will speak up for the future of our fisheries.
As the 113th Congress starts and newly elected and incumbent Senators and Representatives make their way back to Washington, there is a notable loss of knowledge, experience and understanding of the needs of the fishing industry. Representative Barney Frank of Massachusetts, one of the most outspoken members of congress on fishing issues in recent years, has retired. Senator Inouye of Hawaii passed away. Senator Kerry has been chosen by President Obama to join his cabinet as Secretary of State. And our own Senator Snowe, a strong supporter of the fishing industry and healthy oceans, has also retired. In the course of one year, Congress has lost substantial institutional history and knowledge about the complex issues facing our nation’s fishermen and fishing communities. The leadership void on this issue leaves us in the industry wondering who will speak up for the future of our fisheries.
The industry needs strong, knowledgeable voices in Congress to not only support the small businesses that make up the fishing industry, but also to help build the path for a stronger future for the fishing communities of New England.
This is not to say that there are no longer any fisheries advocates in Congress. Maine’s Senator Collins and Representative Pingree have been staunch supporters of the industry and the fishery since they were elected, but we have lost the critical mass of individuals who were willing to make fisheries one of their top priorities and move good ideas through Congress. This loss can only hurt the industry in the future.
With so many new Congressmen from New England, the fishing industry is looking for new champions to lead the way through these increasingly important times. Maine’s Congressional delegation should take this opportunity to step into this important role as thought leaders on New England fisheries and drive the issues that will ensure a successful future for Maine’s fishing families.
Ben Martens is the Executive Director of the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association (formerly Midcoast Fishermen’s Association)
Read the full opinion piece on the Working Waterfront