To ensure that the sealing industry remains an integral part of the economy and the culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government continues to take action against any misinterpretations of the annual harvest that exist throughout the world.

The Honourable Tom Rideout, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today expressed government�s extreme disappointment with a recent statement from Germany�s agriculture minister, Horst Seehofer, that he aims to introduce a national ban on the import of seal products.

"I am very displeased with Germany�s intentions," said Minister Rideout. "The annual seal fishery is a sustainable harvest based on solid science, full utilization of the animal and humane harvesting methods where there is zero tolerance for any inhumane practices. The seal resource has played a critical role in the evolution of many of our coastal regions, and represents a significant source of income for thousands of families. I hope that the minister of agriculture strongly considers these facts before proceeding with this action.

"Germany is also involved in the harvest of wild animals," continued the minister. "Our province takes no issue with the fact that they hunt 1.2 million deer and over 500,000 wild boars per year. Therefore, it is hypocritical for them to take issue with a well managed and sustainable seal harvest in Canada and other countries."

Minister Rideout added that he will write the minister to discourage this proposed ban.

"A letter will be sent to Minister Seehofer outlining the facts behind our annual seal fishery," said Minister Rideout. "A package of materials will be included to ensure that the minister has in front of him all of the facts. It was only earlier this year that the EU Commission decided not to draft a ban on seal products, and I encourage Germany to take this into consideration and follow suit."

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has made much progress in promoting the seal fishery to the world. In November, the province hosted a visit by European Members of Parliament, including representatives from the United Kingdom, Italy, Portugal and Estonia. This included a discussion of all aspects of the seal fishery. In January, the Premier spoke with a number of visiting EU journalists and was successful in helping the individuals achieve a better understanding of the industry.

"These are just two examples of our government�s attention to the seal fishery," said Minister Rideout. "We also allocated $100,000 in Budget 2006 to correct the misinformation regarding the industry throughout the world. A number of materials have been prepared, and these will be distributed throughout the world. In moving forward, our government will continue to support the seal fishery and we will continue to defend it on the global stage."