Fishermen’s Partnership to Honor Senator Kennedy

Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation Friday, April 4

The Massachusetts Fishermen’s Partnership will present its Lifetime Achievement Award to Senator Edward M. Kennedy during ceremonies this Friday evening at the Peabody Marriott’s Centennial Ballroom from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Senator Kennedy will attend the presentation to accept the award.

Event Particulars:

Lifetime Achievement Award for Support of Fishing Families Presented by the Massachusetts Fishermen’s Partnership to Senator Edward M. Kennedy Reception 5 to 7 p.m. – April 4 Peabody Marriott’s Centennial Ballroom 8 Centennial Drive Peabody, MA 01960

Many working fishermen will be attending this event and will be available to speak with reporters and provide on camera interviews.

Background Senator Kennedy is the primary patron of the Fishing Partnership Health Plan, and his leadership secured federal funding to launch this unique health program. Before the plan was put into place, 40% of fishermen did not have health coverage. Today almost 1800 fishing persons enjoy the security of this path breaking health program.

In the 1970s the Senator led the way in protecting U.S. fisheries from depletion by foreign factory ships. Ever since he has fought hard to protect fishing grounds and fishing communities from numerous ecological threats ranging from ocean dumping and mining to offshore oil drilling. He has made training available to fishing families who chose to pursue new careers. Senator Kennedy has secured Coast Guard search and rescue resources and has played a very active role throughout the years to improve fisheries science and ensure fishermen have a fair voice in the regulatory process.

About the Organization

The Massachusetts Fishermen's Partnership (MFP) is an umbrella organization of 17 commercial fishing associations representing all gear and geographic sectors of the Massachusetts fishing industry. The organization was created to promote the common interests and economic viability of commercial fishermen and fishing families. The MFP is sponsor of the Fishing Partnership Health Plan, which provides comprehensive healthcare coverage for almost 1800 members in the fishing community.

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