The Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today issued the following statement:
"The Government of Canada has taken action to protect the safety and livelihoods of Canadian sealers by boarding and seizing the Farley Mowat to arrest its Captain and Chief Officer for alleged violations of Canada's Marine Mammal Regulations (MMR). These actions were taken in accordance with Canadian fisheries legislation."
"The safety and security of sealers remains our government's focus and is what guides our decisions on the water."
"Today's action will help ensure the safe and orderly conduct of the seal hunt. We will continue to protect sealers while ensuring the sustainable and humane management of the hunt so it continues to provide economic opportunities for Canada's coastal communities in the future."
Backgrounder:
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For more Information:
Phil Jenkins
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-990-7537
Joshua Zanin
Special Assistant, Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-266-5293
