STATEMENT BY THE HONOURABLE GEOFF REGAN MINISTER OF FISHERIES AND OCEANS

Statement

January 27, 2005 Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is committed to strictly enforcing existing regulations prohibiting the hunting and sale, barter or trade of blueback seals. I am strongly opposed to the illegal hunting of any mammal resource. In the wake of a Newfoundland and Labrador provincial court decision earlier this week, DFO will continue to make every effort to ensure sealers are knowledgeable of the regulations pertaining to the seal hunt. The law against selling blueback seals has been in place since 1987, when it was enacted by the federal cabinet. DFO regulations banning the hunting and sale, barter or trade of bluebacks was challenged by sealers however, in 2002, the Supreme Court of Canada rejected the challenge and upheld DFO's regulations making these practices illegal. Fishery officers will closely monitor the seal harvest to ensure sealers comply with Canada's Marine Mammal Regulations. This will include monitoring catches, ensuring humane harvesting practices are observed and enforcement of regulations and licence conditions. - 30 - For more Information: Christiane Parcigneau Media Relations Fisheries and Oceans Canada Ottawa (613) 998-1530 Brian Underhill Director of Communications Office of the Minister Fisheries and Oceans Canada Ottawa (613) 992-3474

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2016-12-15

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STATEMENT BY THE HONOURABLE GEOFF REGAN MINISTER OF FISHERIES AND OCEANS

Statement

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