sector IX

City Council unanimously voted to ask local, state, and federal political figures to hold an emergency summit addressing the concerns of the fishing industry.

NEW BEDFORD — Fishing vessels owned by convicted "Codfather" Carlos Rafael and others are moving out of the shut-down Sector IX, but still won't be allowed to fish. The 55 vessels have submitted their intention to become part of Sector VII for the 2018-19 fishing year...

The Massachusetts Congressman says he had a "great meeting" with new NOAA Regional Administrator Michael Pentony to discuss ending the Sector IX groundfishing ban.

According to a new study conducted by an SMAST professor, an estimated 300 jobs have been lost due to NOAA's decision to shut down groundfishing in Sector IX.

NOAA regional administrator John Bullard tells WBSM News that shutting down Sector IX isn't about any kind of sanctions or punitive actions for Carlos Rafael's overfishing scheme, but rather for cleaning up the mess he left behind.

Councillor at Large Brian Gomes says he's disappointed that the City's federal representatives have not been more vocal in their support of local fishermen.

It must be surreal for Mitchell to know his neighbor and predecessor to his position is now his biggest adversary as he tries to stop economic catastrophe for hundreds of New Bedford families, thanks to Bullard.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell offered his thoughts on the Misty Blue sinking and its missing crew, sharing his own personal story of losing a loved one at sea.

Disappointment in a John Bullard NOAA decision to shut down Sector IX

Representatives of the fishermen and others affected by NOAA's decision to halt commercial groundfishing in Sector IX due to the actions of "The Codfather" Carlos Rafael have crafted a letter explaining why they feel the decision was unjust.