2013 Seal Harvest Receives Financial Boost

The sealing industry continues to provide an economic benefit to many people and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. For this reason, the Provincial Government announced today that it will provide Carino Processing Ltd. of South Dildo with a new $3.6 million loan for the purchase of seals from the 2013 harvest.

“The sealing industry provides economic benefit to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador and our government is pleased to provide financial assistance in support of the 2013 harvest,” said the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “Last year, the loan to Carino Processing Ltd., which was paid back in full and on time, ensured hundreds of sealers and processing workers earned an income. The annual seal harvest is humane and sustainable, and is important to the long-term stability of fish stocks adjacent to this province. Coupled with the fact that opportunities for the seal products undoubtedly exist, our government is please to once again provide financial assistance supporting the long-term viability of this industry.”

The $3.6 million loan will go toward the purchase of seal pelts and blubber. The company will show its continued commitment to the future of the industry by making a matching contribution for processing/marketing activities.

“The Newfoundland and Labrador seal harvest is an important part of our culture, heritage and economy and it has great future potential,” said Dion Dakins, Chief Executive Officer of Carino. “While market access remains challenged, largely due to international political positioning, the potential for people to continue to earn a living from this sustainable renewable resource are real. Whether it is fisherman aboard a boat, a worker in a processing plant, or a manufacturer/trader of finished goods, we must continue to work collectively to solve the challenges we face and unlock the maximum future potential of our industry. We are most grateful to have our government as a supporter and partner in this endeavor.”

The value of the sealing industry has reached $100 million in recent years. There are currently in excess of eight million harp seals in the waters near Newfoundland and Labrador. They are detrimental to fish stocks and will continue to pose risk to the future viability to the Canadian fishery if left unchecked. The harvest is carried out humanely by using procedures that have been recommended and endorsed by veterinarians. No white coats seals are killed during the harvest as many anti-sealing groups want consumers to believe.

“Seals and sealing represents a long-term economic opportunity for many fish harvesters and processing workers in rural communities, many of which live in this area,” said Calvin Peach, MHA for Bellevue. “On behalf of those groups, I offer appreciation to our Provincial Government for such a resounding level of support and for recognizing the annual seal harvest as an important economic contributor to rural and coastal communities throughout the province.”

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2013 03 27                             11:40 a.m.