Cohen Commission to submit final report by September 30, 2012

VANCOUVER, March 30, 2012 /CNW/ - The Cohen Commission of Inquiry into the Decline of Sockeye Salmon in the Fraser River has been granted an additional three month extension by the Governor General in Council to complete its work. The commission's Terms of Reference are now revised to call for a final report to be submitted on or before September 30, 2012.

In completing his final report, Commissioner Bruce Cohen will consider all the evidence entered at evidentiary hearings and approximately 900 submissions from the public. More than 160 witnesses testified at the hearings, resulting in 14,000 pages of transcripts and 2,100 exhibits. The Commissioner requested the extension to complete the writing, translation and production of the report.

About the Cohen Commission
The Cohen Commission (www.cohencommission.ca) was established on November 5, 2009 with the appointment of the Honourable Bruce Cohen as Commissioner. Under its Terms of Reference, the commission held hearings to investigate and report on the decline of sockeye salmon in the Fraser River. Based on his findings, the Commissioner will make recommendations for improving the future sustainability of the sockeye salmon fishery in the Fraser River, including, as required, any changes to the policies, practices and procedures of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in relation to the management of the Fraser River sockeye salmon fishery.

Media Contact:
Carla S. Shore
Communications Director, Cohen Commission of Inquiry
Phone: [phone], Cell: 604-329-0975
Email: [email protected]