This all comes out of BC's coast wide quota. Determined by IPHC.
Programs like PICFI and ATP are DFO tools to gradually transfer the Canadian quota over to Aboriginal Nations. The Federal government buys quota from (usually retiring commercial fishers) and distributes it to FN groups whether the FN band plans to fish it or lease it or to their liking- as long as it's in their hands.
If FN's are charged with selling undeclared commercial fish, food fish, or wasting, the charge goes back to the band rather than court because of their undetermined rights because of a lack of FN agreement on legally binding treaties. Then the band decides what they themselves should do about the charge. At this point the DFO fisheries officer abandons the issue. If you buy from FN's illegally and you're not FN, then you will be charged and convicted like any other Canadian.
If you want to find someone in DFO, look at their directory. You can find anyone you like, their office, and chain of command:
http://sage-geds.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/cgi-bin/direct500/eng/TE?FN=index.htm
Here is an article with one of the higher-level BC DFO decision makers, and his view on these issues:
http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com...ission-the-rights-and-privillages-of-fishing/
Quoted from the article:
-“The public of Canada have rights?” Keith Lowes, lawyer for the B.C. Wildlife Federation and the B.C. Federation of Drift Fishers, asked Barry Huber.
Barry Huber is an aboriginal adviser in the DFO in British Columbia who is now on special assignment to develop “co-management” arrangements with natives for the fragile fishery.
-“Yes,” Huber replied.
-“Including the right to fish recreationally?” Lowes said, adding conversationally that he believed Huber himself is a recreational fisherman.
-“I have a privilege,” Huber said carefully.
-Clearly taken aback, Lowes said, “You say public fishing is a privilege, not a right?”
-“Yes,” said Huber.
Then you could ask- What is the difference between 'food fish' and 'commercial fish'?. Which opens up a whole other bag of worms like- Are people fishing for their families 'food fishers' whether FN or not? And- Are guides and lodges 'commercial fishers'?
Access to resident fishers and their food fish for sustenance should play a part for any Canadian living here, no matter what race or colour, especially on the coast.
Look at the east coast of Canada - they are not even allowed to set a trap in front of their house to catch and eat a lobster with their kids.