For over 30 years, he has empowered workers in the fishing industry. Through his direction and involvement in the Canadian Council of Professional Fish Harvesters and numerous advisory bodies, he has helped establish this work force as a profession. In addition, he was instrumental in the organization and creation of his province's Fishermen, Food and Allied Workers Union. An innovator, he was also a key player in the development of educational programs for fishers, plant workers and their families, notably a province-wide literacy program.