Major Investigation Leads to Significant Fines for Seafood Retailer

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - May 31, 2016) - A major crackdown in 2014 by Fisheries and Oceans Canada on the illegal harvest and subsequent sale of crab and spot prawns into the Vancouver retail and restaurant seafood market, has led to a significant fine for a Vancouver merchant.

The Honourable Justice Conni Bagnall handed down a $30,000 fine to Mr. Ying Chiu in Vancouver Provincial Court on April 18, 2016. Mr. Chiu pleaded guilty on April 6 to 2 counts of purchasing prawn caught out of season on January 30 and February 3, 2014.

Quick Facts

• This major case resulted in multiple charges being laid in October 22, 2015, for the illegal harvest and subsequent sale of crab and prawn into the Vancouver seafood market.
• Thirty-eight violations of the Fisheries Act were laid involving two retail seafood businesses and seven individuals.
• Additional charges against Jumbo Seafood Co., Ltd. and Mr. Chiu were stayed.
• The next appearance for the remaining defendants in this case is slated for May 11, 2016, in Vancouver Provincial Court.
• Only fish caught under a licence, which permits the sale, or purchase of fish, may be purchased or sold. Any fish sold must be processed through a licensed plant to ensure quality and public safety. Fish that has not been inspected may be unsafe for consumption.
• The legal commercial spot prawn season is generally open in May through June.

The Government of Canada is committed to safeguarding the long-term health and productivity of Canada's fisheries resources, and the habitat that supports them, for generations to come. Fisheries and Oceans Canada has a mandate to protect and conserve marine resources and to prosecute offenders under the Fisheries Act. It ensures and promotes compliance with the Act and other laws and regulations through a combination of land, air, and sea patrols, as well as education and awareness activities. As part of Fisheries and Oceans Canada's work to end illegal activity, the Department asks the public for information on activities of this nature or any contravention of the Fisheries Act and Regulations. Anyone with information can call the toll-free violation reporting line at 1-800-465-4336.

Internet: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

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