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Lennox Island First Nation claims DFO seized lobster traps and violated Treaty rights

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) allegedly seized lobster traps deployed by the Lennox Island First Nation on Prince Edward Island that are protected by the First Nation's Treaty Protected Fishery, said representatives from Lennox Island in a news release. 'This is a constitutional Treaty right – not a privilege, not a negotiation, and not something Canada gets to control,' said Chief Darlene Bernard. 'Our Treaty Protected Fishery follows a community-developed plan that aligns with conservation priorities and voluntarily mirrors DFO regulations.' Bernard said DFO's actions are a violation of their rights. 'It is a modest fishery that we launched on principle and it has run successfully and safely for three years now.' DFO granted Lennox Island First Nation a one-time authorization of up to 1,000 lobster traps in Lobster Fishing Area (LFA) 24 under the Treaty-protected fishery in spring 2025. 'Fishing found in contravention of the Fisheries Act and regulations, and/or without a license or authorization issued by the Department, may be subject to enforcement action,' said DFO in an email to CTV. The fishery was proceeding with the same number of traps as last season, said the release from Lennox Island. They said they have engaged with DFO in good faith and followed regulations. 'This is about more than traps or lobster – this is about our right to self-determination, economic justice, and the survival of our way of life,' said Chief Bernard. 'We are not backing down. Our fishers are out there with the full support of our Nation and our ancestors behind them.' Chief Bernard demanded the return of the seized fishing gear and an end to DFO's enforcement campaign. 'On one hand, it recognizes our Treaty right; on the other, it seizes our traps when we exercise that right,' said Bernard. DFO said authorized community members in Lennox Island are required to meet licence conditions including the use of DFO tags. They said the situation at Malpeque and Alberton, P.E.I. is under investigation and no further details are available at this time. Lobsters For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.