A Department of Fisheries and Oceans document outlining conversations between federal and provincial officials in the wake of the Marshall decision, dated September 27, 1999, states the following:

"MFU legislated under a Provincial Act will be called by Paul Robichaud to remain calm. Influence via accreditation of MFU"

Plans to intimidate and threaten fishermen and their representatives to support government policy are improper and quite possibly illegal. When such a conspiracy involves federal and provincial fisheries officials decisive action is warranted.

"It is not for me to decide if this objectionable behaviour rises to the level of illegal behaviour."

May 4, 2000

Hon. Brad Green, Q.C.
Attorney General of New Brunswick
Legislative Assembly
Fredericton, N.B.
E3B 5H1

Dear Attorney General:

The New Brunswick Inshore Fisheries Representation Act that provides accreditation for the Maritime Fishermen's Union is designed to give fishermen a strong and effective voice to address fisheries management issues effecting their livelihood. The Marshall decision is such an issue.

The legislation was never intended to be used as an instrument to intimidate and blackmail fishermen into silence. Such plans are improper and quite possibly illegal. When such a conspiracy involves federal and provincial fisheries officials decisive action is warranted.

It is not for me to decide if this objectionable behaviour rises to the level of illegal behaviour. As this conspiracy may involve the N.B. Minister and Deputy Minister of Fisheries, I therefore write to you in your special capacity as Attorney General of New Brunswick, rather than in your capacity as Minister of Justice or Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

I am concerned that federal and provincial officials would conspire in this manner. Your review of this document would be most appreciated.

Your sincerely,

John Cummins, M.P.
Delta-South Richmond