NR-HQ-97-51E

1998 Atlantic Seal Management Measures

December 30, 1997

OTTAWA -- David Anderson, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced that a survey of the harp seal population will be undertaken in 1998.

"I am committed to conservation and sustainability of this resource," said Mr. Anderson. "Until we have new information on the size of the harp seal population, there is no basis for change in the total allowable catch (TAC). Next year’s population survey will provide us with new scientific data to determine the level of future harvests that will ensure sustainability."

The total allowable catch (TAC) for harp seals will remain at last year’s level of 275,000.

The TAC for hooded seals will be increased from 8,000 to 10,000 well within the estimated replacement yield. A survey for the hooded seal population is scheduled for 1999.

"The sealing industry provides much financial value to Atlantic Canada and Quebec," Mr. Anderson said. "With economic spin-offs, the seal fishery in 1996 contributed more than $11 million to the economy of coastal communities in Newfoundland and Labrador."

Many of these economic benefits accrue to local communities that have few economic alternatives and that have been hard hit by the downturn in the fishery. The seal harvest provides jobs for people and spending by sealers stimulates businesses in their local communities and elsewhere. As well, many aboriginal peoples have and still traditionally rely on seals for many of their needs.

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans will continue to support the policy of full utilization of the harvested seals through the provision of a meat subsidy. Financial assistance to the sealing industry, including the seal meat subsidy, has been capped at $500,000 for 1998. This amount will be reduced to $250,000 in 1999 and will end after the 1999 sealing season.

In addition to the harp seal population survey, a review of Marine Mammal Regulations will also be undertaken next year, with the view to updating and improving regulatory provisions.

"As always, regulations to ensure a humane and responsible harvest will continue to be strictly enforced." said Mr. Anderson.