(March 8, 2021) – A PC government believes there are yet-untapped national and international markets for humane, sustainable seal products coming from Newfoundland and Labrador, says Crosbie.

He says it’s time government dedicated its efforts to focusing on developing these markets to support economic development in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.

“It used to be that people ate seals, but now seals eat people – they eat their livelihoods,” said Crosbie. “The images of crab-filled stomachs on the Baie Verte Peninsula late last week were a vivid reminder of the impact of seal predation on our fisheries. A PC government would work tirelessly to create new markets for seal products around the world to better manage the seal population.”

Paddock says creating sustainable markets for the humane, cultural and often Indigenous-led seal hunt in Newfoundland and Labrador is another way a proactive PC government would support jobs and growth throughout our province.

“Seal products in Newfoundland and Labrador have already gained international recognition for their quality. We now need to expand the marketplace and create more sustainable jobs in rural Newfoundland and Labrador based off the abundant population of seals off our shores,” said Paddock.

“The first step is market development, but by advocating for a seal cull if necessary, we will draw attention to the problem and draw support for our industry. In so doing, we will ensure other fisheries – particularly the crab and cod fisheries – can have a more sustainable future, thereby putting more people to work in rural parts of our Province.”

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Communications

(p) (709) 769-2216

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