Listuguj Awarded at the APC Fisheries Conference

The Atlantic Policy Congress recognized the exceptional achievements of Mi’gmaq, Wolastoqiyik, and Passamaquoddy individuals and organizations working to consolidate various aspects of the fisheries industry for their communities.

The APC’s annual conference, held in Moncton from January 28 to 30, honored Rachel Barnaby with the “Fleet Manager of the Year” award, while James Metallic-Sloan received a graduate certificate in Commercial Fishing Enterprise Management after extensive training completed.

Approximately 100 participants from different communities attended the ceremony, where awards were presented in multiple categories, including Captain of the Year, Crew of the Year, Women in Fisheries, and Excellence in Aquaculture. In the previous year, staff from the Listuguj Natural Resources Directorate received awards in some of these categories.

“I would like to thank the NRD for nominating me for Fleet Manager of the Year and the APC for presenting me with the award. It is an honor to be recognized for the hard work and dedication my position entails,” said Rachel Barnaby, who joined the NRD in February 2023. “Receiving this award means so much to me as it acknowledges the achievements of the NRD team, the captains, crews, and all the fishers involved. Without their involvement, this would not have been possible. This award is a milestone in my career and motivates me to continue striving for the future of Listuguj fisheries,” she concluded.

James Metallic-Sloan also received his graduation certificate for the “Commercial Fisheries Enterprise Management” from the Nova Scotia Community College at the ceremony, expressing gratitude to the Atlantic Policy Congress for the training and resources that enabled him to attend. “Through modules focusing on general business management, financial management, operational management, and fisheries business development, I was able to continue developing skills related to commercial fisheries management. It was also beneficial to network and problem-solve with coordinators and managers from other communities facing similar issues,” he stated. “I hope that through this training, I can continue to better serve Listuguj in managing our resources,” he added.

Since the launching of commercial fisheries, 25 years ago, Listuguj has evolved and now inspires other communities with its determination to regain jurisdiction over the waters and the excellence of the NRD staff in fisheries operations. “Over the years, Listuguj’s innovation, strength and leadership have been recognized at the APC Fisheries Conference,” said Denny Isaac, NRD’s Associate Director. “We are proud of James and Rachel’s work, as well as all the people involved in fisheries activities who continuously elevate the standards in our fisheries operations. Listuguj should feel inspired and grateful for the dedication shown by Rachel and James.”

By the Listuguj Natural Resources Directorate