FFAW is pleased with scientific work announcement on seal population

The FFAW is pleased with an announcement by Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard Joyce Murray that revealed an open call for proposals from Indigenous and industry groups to undertake scientific work.

DFO says there are 7.4 million Northwest Atlantic harp seals. The FFAW has been advocating for an improved understanding of seal stocks in the maritime region.

FFAW-Unifor Secretary-Treasurer Jason Spingle said, "we are certainly pleased with Minister Murray’s funding announcement today to better assess and understand seal stocks and the impacts overpopulation is having on the ecosystem."

Harp seals feed on a wide range of wildlife including shrimp, prawns, crustaceans, and many types of fish including Atlantic cod.

Spingle added, "we cannot have a balanced ecosystem if one species is allowed to spiral out of control."