I am concerned about sustainable economic development. In Canada, the seal hunt is tightly regulated and sustainable: the Harp seal's population roughly increased from 2 million animals to 10 million in the space of 40 years. As of today, the natural balance of the Atlantic Coast's ecosystem is at risk because of the reduction in hunting, the threat of abolition and the recent overpopulation of the Harp seal.
In 2009, experts have come together to propose a code of ethics that guarantees sustainable seal hunt. As such, I invite you to consult the Universal Declaration on the Ethical Harvest of Seals. A document that is endorsed by the Governments of Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador and the Northwest Territories.
Regarding the control of animal species, the United States is currently considering repealing the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act to establish a new law called the Controlled Seal Population Plan (CSPP). This law would allow hunters to partake in a seal hunt to control the West Coast's booming sea lion population. In Canada, seal hunters value utilizing this resource to its full potential demonstrating their communities' full commitment to respecting nature.
Regarding the market for seal products, demand still exists for such products. Such is the case of chefs who serve seal meat in their restaurants in Quebec. Furthermore, the French Press Agency reported on February 28th 2012 that Russia was considering allowing the sale of canned seal meat in an attempt to control the seal population while providing food to its citizens.
Finally, I urge you to speak out against the looming extinction of the Mediterranean Monk Seal (total population 150-200 animals). This species has never been publicly defended by animal rights organization opposed to the sustainable Canadian seal hunt. Just like the European Union, the United States, Mexico and Russia.