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“Our department is pleased to assist the Youth Intervention Outreach Program address the needs of young people at risk,” said Minister Brown. “Fishing allows these youth the opportunity to form a relationship with nature that they may not have otherwise experienced.”

The fishing rods were seized by conservation officers for angling violations under the Wildlife Protection Act. Violations such as angling out of season and exceeding possession and size limits result in a loss of fishing gear, fines and a one-year loss of angling privileges. Anglers can retrieve their equipment from the department but many of the fishing rods go unclaimed.

Now those unclaimed fishing rods will be put to good use with the Youth Intervention Outreach Program.

Chuck MacPherson, Youth Intervention Outreach Worker, said the donation will add to the many benefits of the program.

“Fishing provides a unique way to connect with youth outside of an office environment and allows them to engage in a fun recreational activity,” said MacPherson. “It is wonderful to see the department extend this offer. The payoff is priceless.”

The department waives the cost of fishing permits for youth involved in the Youth Intervention Outreach Program, said Minister Brown.

The Youth Intervention Outreach Program is a partnership between the Charlottetown Police Services and the Office of the Attorney General. The goal of the program is to reduce the number of youth who enter the justice system.