For Immediate Release

Norfolk, MA – May 2, 2010 -The recent regulations imposed by Jane Lubchenco, the former board member of the Environmental Defense Fund and President Barack Obama’s choice to head NOAA, further restricts the livelihood of commercial fishermen in New England. The jack-boot of government regulations already affects the local fishing industry, and they’re already hurting from catch limits, high taxes, high insurance premiums and other related costs. These are basically middle class families carrying on a tradition that is being systematically eliminated through government over-regulation.This regulation will have disastrous effects, as many fishermen will be forced out of business. This is a death blow to the family fisherman in the 4th Congressional District and throughout Massachusetts. The only beneficiaries of these regulations will be large foreign and domestic corporations.

The new fishing regulations fly in the face of traditional American work ethics that include self reliance, independence and opportunity which lead to prosperity. These destructive regulations make no sense, especially during period of recession, where some areas of the Southcoast like New Bedford, are experiencing an unemployment rate of almost 20 percent. This is more evidence that the current administration and Congress are out-of-touch with the average working man.

Earl Sholley, candidate for Congress in the 4th Congressional District is a strong advocate for the family fisherman, and has spoken out on this vital issue which deals directly with the Southcoast fishing industry. He believes that though Congressman Barney Frank talks a good game when it comes to helping fishermen, actions speak louder than words. The fisherman need action now! Remind Congressman Frank that the fishermen should be allowed to control their own industry. The first maxim of law is that it should do no harm. Janet Lucbencheno should be fired immediately, and these harmful regulations should be reversed. We don’t need and don’t want large corporations or the government running the fishing industry. Save the family fishermen!