FISH-NL launches GoFundMe campaign to fight FFAW

FISH-NLis launching a GoFundMecampaign to raise $16,000 to cover expenses in its quest to overthrow theFish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW).

• Head to head: FISH-NL challenges FFAW to public debate
• FFAW claims harvesters revoking signed support for FISH-NL
• 'Taking down the saltwater mafia': Fish harvesters move towards new union

"This battle has been compared to David vs. Goliath," said FISH-NL president Ryan Cleary in a press release Friday.

"But while the FFAW has unlimited funds at its disposal as well as a definitive list of all fish harvesters in the province FISH-NL has overwhelming momentum fueled by hundreds of volunteers."

Clearly said in the news release the moneyraised will be used to buy advertising, hire staff, pay for travel and office expenses and "oversee the conclusion of the membership drive."

The crowdfunding campaign had raised $1,650 by noon Friday, two hours after being posted.

FISH-NLand theFFAWare vying for the support of the province's fish harvesters and the two sides have recently ramped up their war of words.

"The will for change is unstoppable," saidCleary."But only if all hands are on deck."

FISH-NL needs the support of a majority of the province's estimated 10,000 fish harvesters to be certified.

Cleary has said he expects to submit an application to the provincial labour board in mid-December.