Government for failing Bermudian fishermen.

He said the just-announced deal with seven Canadian fishing boats was not enough.

Under it, local men can get jobs on the vessels, which have been licensed to fish in Bermuda waters.

Said Rev. Woolridge: "This overall agreement appears to have been initiated by the operators of the Canadian vessels involved, rather than by the Bermuda Government.

"The UBP Government must take a leadership role in providing opportunities for Bermudians, rather than reacting with inadequate half measures.'' He added: "As Shadow Minister I will be tabling Parliamentary questions that will amongst other things be calling on Government to formally table this agreement in Parliament.'' Environment Minister the Hon. Gerald Simmons announced the deal on Sunday.

He explained the longline Canadian vessels had agreed to employ two Bermudians per boat to act as crew.

"Unlike previous years when the majority of the licences were for Taiwanese, this year seven of the ten foreign licences issued will go to Canadian vessels.'' However, Rev. Woolridge was less than impressed.

He said the agreement would only provide jobs for 14 Bermudians.

"Yet there are numerous Bermudians in this important industry who are still suffering economic difficulties, as a result of the fish pot ban and adequate alternative employment not being readily available.

"Since the ban and coupled with the recession, fishermen and their families have endured tremendous stress.'' The pot ban was brought in by former Environment Minister the Hon. Ann Cartwright DeCouto amid rising concern at decreasing fish stocks.

But Rev. Woolridge said the ban had been imposed without considering alternative employment for fishermen.

He said a Progressive Labour Party Government would carry out an in-depth "feasability study into the prospects of developing a commercially viable deep sea fishing fleet and industry''.

This would use the skills of fishermen, boost Bermuda's ability to feed itself, and develop an "export capability''.

"The PLP pledges its continued support for fishermen and their families, and reminds the UBP Government that it has a moral obligation to provide a long-term development plan for Bermuda's offshore fisheries resources that will ensure our fishing families are able to earn a living in an industry that they are expert at and has served this community so well over the years.''