Exploratory turbot fishery underway in high Arctic

The Arctic Fishery Alliance has a new locally owned vessel in the high Arctic at the moment looking into the possibility of a commercialfisherythere.

The ship, theAtlantic Prospect, is doing exploratory turbot fishing nearGriseFiord. The Alliance is made up of the hunters and trappers organizations inQikiqtarjuaq,GriseFiord, Arctic Bay and Resolute.

"I can't speak for other communities but a lot of work has been done to get to where we are right now," said Marty Kuluguqtuq, secretary-treasurer of theGriseFiord Iviq Hunters and Trappers Association. "To physically see a boat which is 25per cent owned byGriseFiordis something that the community is very proud of."

Kuluguqtuqsays the community is excited at the prospect of a commercial fishery."It's an excellent experience for the community, it's an excellent opportunity as analternative for employment as well," he said.

The expedition has gotten off to a slow start, but Kuluguqtuq saysthe fishery has potential.

The vessel is headed toQikiqtarjuaqnext week to do more exploratory fishing there.