Musqueam First Nation Concerned About Spill Response and Shuts Down Fishery

COAST SALISH TERRITORY, VANCOUVER, BC, April 10, 2015 /CNW/ - The Musqueam First Nation is issuing a public notice to its fishers that the Musqueam Fisheries Department is closing all aquatic harvesting in the English Bay,  .... and.... areas until further notice. This includes the removal of prawn, crab and .... Due to the bunker oil  spilled in English Bay Musqueam is asking its members to take all precautions, including reporting any related oil that may be in the waters or onshore.

Chief Wayne Sparrow said, "....We are very concerned about how long it took to notify officials and Musqueam about the spill in English Bay.

Musqueam is working with the Major Projects Management Office West to develop a long term Aquatic Habitat Restoration Plan, as well as creating a First Nations focused Stewardship Centre. This recent incident in English Bay highlights the need to improve relationships between Musqueam, Coast Guard, Port Metro Vancouver and the City of Vancouver. We must put the environment and our waters at the forefront, Musqueam has the knowledge and expertise in our waters.

SOURCE Musqueam Indian Band

Councillor Wendy John, 778-987-2953