Mr. Speaker, sealing has been an important economic activity in Newfoundland and Labrador for hundreds of years. It continues to be critically important for many fish harvesters, plant workers and coastal communities.

During the last year, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has been stepping up our communications activity in relation to the sealing industry to address the misinformation about the industry that is put in the public domain by international animal rights organizations.

In Budget 2006, we as a government recognized the need to correct this misinformation and $100,000 was dedicated toward the implementation of a sealing industry communications strategy. I am pleased to announce today, as part of that initiative, government is launching a sealing industry communications web site.

Mr. Speaker, it is critical for the public to have easy access to factual information on the sealing industry. The groups that are spreading the misinformation have a strong web presence and in order to effectively counter this information, it is important that government has a strong presence as well. The web site, which was launched this morning, will enable people who wish to be better informed on the sealing industry to have easy access to that information.

As part of our efforts, our government has partnered with industry, including some of the representatives who are present in the gallery here today. We have met with European Parliamentarians, journalists and embassy staff members. We have also participated in meetings in Boston and Los Angeles with federal government and industry representatives.

Last week I was in Ottawa to lead a provincial delegation in the counter-demonstration referred to as "Up the Anti" event on Parliament Hill. Over 120 individuals from across the country joined together to ensure the truth was told.

The Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister of Innovation Trade and Rural Development, in cooperation with the federal Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade will be part of a delegation of individuals to Europe beginning Sunday, March 25. The delegation will meet with European Parliamentarians and media regarding the seal harvest. The delegation will be traveling to Brussels, London, Berlin and The Hague.

Mr. Speaker, as Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, we take a great deal of pride in this industry which is humane, sustainable, extremely well managed and economically viable. As a government, we will continue to promote and defend it to all of those who need to be educated and informed on the true facts of this all important industry.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

• Government Launches Sealing Industry Web Site