April 19, 2018 — MYSTIC, Conn. — Whispers filled the convention room at the Hilton Wednesday as the dozens in attendance attempted to count the raised hands, which signified votes of the New England Fishery Management Council.
The three attempts to accurately tally the votes only added to the drama of a discussion that involved a groundfishing ban that’s affected New Bedford since November.
In the end, the vote didn’t provide a resolution for those fishermen out of work and the shoreside businesses affected by the ban.
The final count was 7 yes votes, 5 no votes and 5 abstaining. The motion approved recommendations of a Sector IX lease-only plan and authorization of Sector VII’s full operational plan after repayment of overages.
While the motion was approved, it is only a recommendation to NOAA. The meeting and discussion, which are parts of an overall larger process, acted as a procedural matter to allow the NMFC an opportunity to express its opinion on the issue. NOAA is not obligated to follow the recommendation.
Read the full story at the New Bedford Standard-Times