The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources:
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to acknowledge the recent success of two important events here in Newfoundland and Labrador and in our nation’s capital to commemorate National Seal Products Day May 22.
National Seal Products Day acknowledges the cultural significance of the sealing industry and its ties to the economic well-being of sealers and seal product producers. The Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador worked tirelessly to plan these events, which highlighted seal product displays and, in Ottawa, a feast prepared by well-known chefs from this province, Todd Perrin of Mallard Cottage and Lory McCarthy of Cod Sounds.
Mr. Speaker, our sealing industry is alive and growing. In 2017, landings increased 22 per cent to approximately 81,000 with a value of approximately $2 million and employment of over 50 processing jobs.
Our government supports seal product market development through a variety of funding and grant programs. Since 2007, we have invested over $630,000 in various projects aimed at improving the sustainability of the seal industry.
Mr. Speaker, the people of our province have a strong regard for the seal industry, and National Seal Products Day is our country’s chance to proudly share that regard with the world. I congratulate everyone involved in making National Seal Products Day a resounding success, and look forward to keeping that momentum going with our continued support for this proud and vital industry.
Thank you.