News Release - August 15, 2005

NR-C&A-14-05E

Oceans Day 2005 - Paulatuk, NWT

Paulatuk, NWT - DFO has been part of a group coordinating Oceans Day in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region for the past three years, and is excited about today's Oceans Day festivities in Paulatuk, NT. Oceans Day is officially celebrated on Canada's two other coastlines on June 8th, but in the Arctic is held later in the summer to fully engage communities who have many members out on the waters harvesting traditional foods. Oceans Day 2005 on August 15th coincides with the last day of Paulatuk's Ikhalukpik Jamboree.

The ocean and the abundant resources it offers has been the Inuvialuit way of life for generations. The Fisheries Joint Management Committee (FJMC) - a co-management organization of the Inuvialuit Final Agreement (IFA) - and the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC) - the administrative body of the IFA representing the collective Inuvialuit interests - work together each year with DFO to coordinate this popular event.

Cal Wenghofer, Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR) Program Coordinator, says, "This year's theme for Oceans Day, 'Dare to Care..Special Marine Places...Get to Know One' is especially meaningful since we are well on our way to establishing the first Marine Protected Area in Canada's Arctic."

Nellie J. Cornoyea, CEO and Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, adds, "This year's theme focuses on the unique relationship between Paulatuk and the Ocean. It is very appropriate that Oceans Day is being celebrated here".

The day's events include a parade, games for young and old, drum dancing, a feast of fish and muktuk provided from the generous Ocean, and the popular hot dog served at all cookouts. Oceans Day celebration is a way to give back thanks!

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For more information:
Robbi Jordan
Regional Communications Manager
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Central and Arctic Region
(905) 336-4974