Environment and Conservation
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
October 12, 2010Consultations Taking Place on
George River Caribou
Consultations with targeted stakeholders will take place in Labrador
today and tomorrow on the management of the George River caribou herd.
Preliminary census results, from a post-calving census conducted in July
2010, indicated a significant decline in the population. Feedback
received from the consultations will be used by the Provincial
Government in the decision-making process regarding revised harvest
management approaches.
"The preliminary data we have received points toward a substantial
decrease in the population of the George River herd, and appropriate
management measures need to be discussed, developed and implemented,"
said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and
Conservation. "An important part of determining these measures involves
consultation with key individuals, groups and organizations that have a
vested interest in the sustainability of this herd. I look forward to
the feedback that will be generated during the meetings."
The census of the herd was conducted in partnership with the
Government of Quebec, Laval University, the Nunatsiavut Government,
Torngat Wildlife and Plants Co-Management Board and the Institute for
Environmental Monitoring and Research. The final results and analysis of
the census will be available later this fall.
"The George River caribou herd is critically important to the people
of Labrador as it contributes almost exclusively to their caribou
harvest needs," said the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador
Affairs. "It is important that we hear, first-hand, what these
individuals and groups have to say about ensuring the future health of
the herd."
"Caribou are intrinsically linked to the cultural identity and
traditions of the Aboriginal people of Labrador and are an important
staple for their dietary needs," said the Honourable Patty Pottle,
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. "These consultations are essential to
the planning of conservation efforts as we all work to secure a future
for the herd."
The meetings with key stakeholders will be conducted by the Minister
of Environment and Conservation, along with officials with the Wildlife
Division and representatives from the Department of Labrador and
Aboriginal Affairs and the Department of Tourism, Culture and
Recreation. In addition to the stakeholder meetings, interested groups
and individuals can submit feedback to