Originally Published: 2009-05-31

The long-awaited European Union (EU) ban against seal products has been approved, and it has given hope to the many activists who are now suggesting that even Canada can play its role in putting an end to what they consider an inhumane practice.
According to Sheryl Fink, a researcher for International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Ottawa’s position is not a reflection on the current state of the economy or because of any doubts regarding the unethical nature of this practice. Rather, “Ottawa is being held hostage by Newfoundland,” says Fink.
Fink adds, “The European Union has shown a great role of leadership by having taken this step to ban seal products. We only hope that now Ottawa can find the courage to take the same step for Canada.”
Fink hasn’t lost hope that Parliament Hill can measure up to the example of the EU. But she does remain realistic when it comes to the time needed for this landmark decision: “This is about the Canadian government making an economically sound and responsible decision for its citizens.”
Fink explains that in terms of international trade, “it would cost Canadians millions of dollars to sustain such a practice, which is more than the value that seal hunting brings into the Canadian market.”
The activist points out that the day after the ban was approved, Prime Minister Harper – who was present for the signing – ironically stated that Canada would not take any measures that would compromise its relationship with the EU. “This is about an accord that is worth billions of dollars,” says Fink. “It’s not worth risking.”
And while the debate continues, there are still many who question what will become of seal hunters if Canada does decide to put an end to the hunt.
“We agree that these people should be compensated, since it is how they make their living,” Fink says, “but in this moment, the value of the products of this industry are so low that seal hunters would only stand to gain if Canada were to follow the EU’s example.”

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