Governments should buy lobster: P.E.I. NDP

Provincial and federal governments should buy lobster at a fair price and then store some for future sale in an effort to shore up price, says the leader of P.E.I.'s New Democrats.

Lobster prices are at their lowest in 20 years, around $3 a pound, and federal Fisheries Minister Gail Shea said last week a plan is being developed, potentially including lobster licence buyouts and changes in employment insurance for some fishermen.

Island New Democrat Leader James Rodd told CBC News on Monday that buying lobster would provide immediate relief.

"If the federal government comes through with a plan, it probably won't be one that will give a price at the wharf, and that is what is needed here at the moment," said Rodd.

"Our fisher people can't sustain another hit that this year is bringing them. And a price that would be in that $5- to $5.50-a-pound range would be sufficient to get them through this particular crisis."

Rodd noted Ottawa has spent billions of dollars to help the auto industry, and said the lobster fishery deserves a direct infusion of cash as well.