Question Period Note: Atlantic Seal Science Task Team

Atlantic Seal Science Task Team

The Atlantic Seal Science Task Team was launched as a direct response to concerns raised by commercial fish harvesters in Eastern Canada on the impact of seal predation on fish stocks.

Members of the Task Team include individuals from the fishing industry and other stakeholders from the Atlantic provinces.

The Task Team is now preparing its report which will include input and recommendations on the Department’s seal science priorities and how we can increase opportunities for collaboration with the fishing industry.

• The Task Team is co-chaired by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and Glenn Blackwood, formally of the Fisheries and Marine Institute at Memorial University. Members have a range of expertise and fisheries experience. They include:
o Bill Taylor, Atlantic Salmon Federation
o Laura Ramsey, PEI Fishermen’s Association
o Ginny Boudreau, Guysborough County Inshore Fishermen’s Association
o Jamie Snook, Torngat Joint Fisheries Board
o Kris Vascotto, Atlantic Groundfish Council
o Robert Hardy, Seafood Consultant
• Jocelyn Thériault from the Regroupement des pêcheurs professionnels des Îles-de-la-Madeleine was originally appointed as a member of the Task Team, [Information was severed in accordance with the Access to Information Act.]
• The objective of the Task Team has been to provide input on the DFO’s Atlantic seal science priorities; on how to increase fishing industry involvement in seal science projects; and on how DFO can better communicate science to the fishing industry.
• The sustainable management of Canadian fisheries is important to fish harvesters. DFO ensures that the best available science is considered when making management decisions, including the impact of seal predation.
• The Task Team focuses only on Atlantic seals science activities and programs and is distinct from DFO's existing Atlantic Seal Advisory Committee (ASAC) which solicits input on seal management issues, including licensing policy, management measures, quota allocations, as well as conservation and compliance issues.
• The Task Team participated in several science information sessions on Atlantic seals both last year and this year. The Task Team is preparing its report which will include input and recommendations on DFO’s seal science priorities and how the Department can increase opportunities for collaboration with the fishing industry.

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