Canadian Sealers Association Opens New Office

The Canadian Sealers Association officially opened its new office today with assistance from the Provincial Government. The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, joined the association’s Executive Director Frank Pinhorn and other industry stakeholders to celebrate a ribbon cutting at 368 Hamilton Avenue.

“The Canadian Sealers Association has been providing valuable support and advocacy to its members for more than 30 years,” said Minister Jackman. “However, the establishment of this new office marks the beginning of a new era of professionalism for both the association, and for sealing in our province. I am confident this office will contribute greatly to the future success of this culturally and economically important industry and I look forward to seeing industry stakeholders benefit.”

The office is intended to become the provincial focal point for activity related to sealing. It will be an important resource to sealers, as it will guide advocacy and promotional efforts, provide information about training and certification opportunities, and manage the administration of key records and statistics.

The opening of the office is another step in the process of improving the overall organization of the industry. Over the past year, the Canadian Sealers Association has been building a new governance model in partnership with the Provincial Government. With a new business model and business plan in development, the association is positioning itself to become more efficient than ever with respect to interacting with stakeholders and serving the needs of sealers. The Provincial Government supported the reorganization of the association and the establishment of the new office with an overall contribution of $68,000.

“This office will provide a one-stop shop that can address the needs of stakeholders in the sealing industry,” said Frank Pinhorn. “I encourage industry stakeholders to use this office to full benefit, and I thank the Provincial Government, the Fish Food and Allied Workers Union, and the Professional Fish Harvesters Certification Board for helping make this office possible.”

The Canadian Sealers Association was formed in 1981. The organization is dedicated to advocating on behalf of industry stakeholders and promoting best practices. Sustainable harvesting, humane practices, and full utilization of harvested seals are the three areas the association has focused on in its efforts to enhance the industry in recent years.

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2011 10 20             10:45 a.m.