Carney acknowledges protesting N.L. fish harvesters during 1st campaign stop

Liberal Leader Mark Carney kicked off his election campaign in St. John's on Sunday, promising tax cuts and also addressing the hundreds of protesting fish harvesters outside the city's convention centre.

Protesters continued to block the lobby, despite securing a meeting with Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson and a promise to look at restructuring the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. 

A heavy police and security presence remained at the centre on Sunday evening, as police guided Liberal attendees through alternative exits. 

The protesting harvesters are affiliated with the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW). They are decrying major cuts to harvesting snow crab in the 3K area and broader management of the sector by federal Thompson, a local Liberal MP running for re-election in St. John's East.

The snow crab quota in the 3K division is losing almost a quarter of last year's total allowable catch at 7,643 tonnes, down from 9,998 tonnes in 2024.

During his speech, Carney acknowledged the protesting harvesters, and said he is there to listen. He said his government will take a closer look at the department of Fisheries and Oceans, with the goal of creating a sustainable fishery and potentially restructuring the department. 

"I understand the importance of making decisions closer to the wharf," said Carney. "We're all here for sustainable fishery and sustainable livelihoods, and we're going to make sure that happens."

WATCH | Mark Carney address the fish harvesters during his speech:

Carney went on to announce a re-elected Liberal government would introduce a middle-class tax cut, which the Liberal leader said will save most Canadian families up to $825 a year.

Carney also spoke to the threats of U.S. tariffs during his speech, saying voters want leadership that stands up for Canada. He called Trump's tariff and sovereignty threats the most serious crisis of our lifetime. 

"We didn't ask for this fight, but Canadians are always ready when someone else drops the gloves."

To loud applause, he said, "In this trade war, just like in hockey, we will win."

While addressing threats to Canada's sovereignty, Carney also made reference to the late premier Joey Smallwood, and his decision to lead Newfoundland and Labrador to join Canada.

"He made it so much better, you made it so much better," he told the audience.