|
OTTAWA – "I applaud the decision of the government of Québec
to support the Universal Declaration on the Ethical Harvest of
Seals, said Senator Hervieux-Payette who lead the project, and
am delighted by Québec’s strong implication in the negotiations
between Canada and the European Union on a free trade
agreement."
Written by a team of seven experts and scientists from six
Canadian provinces and territories and the United States, the
Universal Declaration will be a starting point for new
discussions between North Americans and Europeans on the topic
of marine mammal welfare, including the seal.
The Declaration aims to establish common ethical principles for
all seal-hunting countries by promoting a three-way balance
between ensuring animal welfare, ensuring the well being of
human communities and protecting species and ecosystems.
"This declaration fits perfectly with the vision of the
government of Quebec in promoting a seal hunt that is
sustainable and free of cruelty," wrote the Minister of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mr. Claude Béchard in his
letter written to the Senator on the 3rd of December 2009. "The
government of Québec has been collaborating for many years with
the industry and other governments to ensure that the hunt is
carried out by respecting the highest international standards,"
emphasized the Minister.
The Declaration has also received the support of the government
of Newfoundland and Labrador along with the international
organization for animal conservation IWMC World Conservation
Trust based in Switzerland.
Senator Céline Hervieux-Payette urges all governments and
concerned organizations to promote and study the application of
the Universal Declaration on the Ethical Harvest of Seals
written by a panel of experts.
|
|
