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Lennox Island First Nation to Sue Over Seizure of 300 Lobster Traps by Federal Officers

The First Nation argues the trap seizures violate treaty-protected fishing rights, while Fisheries and Oceans Canada cites non-compliance with licensing limits.

Fishers from Lennox Island load traps before taking to the water on May 7, 2022 for the first day of the community's moderate livelihood fishery. Lennox Island Chief Darlene Bernard says DFO officials seized several lobster traps on or around May 18, 2025, which she called an escalation.

Overview

  • Federal fisheries officers seized 300 lobster traps from Lennox Island First Nation fishers in Malpeque Bay on May 18, 2025.
  • The First Nation has operated a self-governed moderate livelihood fishery since 2022 under a community-developed plan aligned with conservation priorities.
  • Chief Darlene Bernard condemned the seizures as a violation of treaty rights affirmed by the Supreme Court of Canada in the 1999 Marshall decision.
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada maintains that fishers must adhere to a 1,000-trap limit for the 2025 season, while Lennox Island fishers deployed 1,500 traps as in past years.
  • The First Nation has announced plans to take legal action against the federal government, asserting their treaty rights and self-governance over the fishery.