The FFAW is applauding an open call for proposals on increased science on seal populations and the impact on fish stocks.
It was one of a number of discussions as the result of a two-day Seal Summit held in St. John’s this week.
Media were blocked from attending the session, but the FFAW says an announcement was made to better assess and understand seal stocks and the impact an overpopulation of seals is having on fish stocks and stock recovery—particularly cod stocks and capelin.
It’s something the union has been calling for some time.
FFAW Secretary-Treasurer, Jason Spingle says seal predation must be taken into consideration when developing rebuilding plans for various stocks.
“You cannnot have a balanced ecosystem if one species is allowed to spiral out of control,” says Spingle.
(Ryan Cleary)
SEA-NL Executive Director Ryan Cleary was also in attendance and contends that the Seal Summit was just for show.
He says while there is a definite change in tone from Ottawa, there is no plan to address the problem. Without a plan, there is no substance says Cleary.
