Government of Nunavut and Greenland release joint statement
News Release
For Immediate Release
Government of Nunavut and Greenland release joint statement
IQALUIT, Nunavut (April 24, 2015) – Nunavut Premier Peter Taptuna and Greenland Minister of Industry, Labour, Trade and Foreign Affairs Vittus Qujaukitsoq today released a joint statement on the revision of the European Union (EU) Seal Ban Regulation (EC) No 1007/2009 on trade in seal products.
The statement looks to the EU to revise the seal ban, acknowledging that the traditional seal hunt in Nunavut and Greenland is conducted under the principle of sustainability.
“The seal harvest is important to the economic well-being and the socio-cultural fabric of Nunavut’s coastal communities, where economic opportunities are limited,” said Premier Taptuna. “The Inuit seal hunt has taken place for thousands of years. There is no better example of sustainable resource.”
"The seal hunt conducted in Greenland and Nunavut is a traditional and legitimate way of life based on the principle of sustainable use of living resources. I am grateful that Greenland and Nunavut stand together on this important issue, which affects us greatly, and together state that there is absolutely no reason for a tightening or further prohibitions in the EU Seal Ban Regulation," said Minister Qujaukitsoq.
The seal hunt and seal products are critically important for the Arctic people and communities. It is a traditional, sustainable and legitimate way of life.
“The joint statement recognizes that we want the Indigenous Communities Exemption to work to benefit Inuit communities. Nunavut is hopeful that our recent application to become a Recognized Body will be approved by the EU, as a first step to address the damage done to our sealing industry,” said Premier Taptuna.
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Statement attached
Media Contact:
Yasmina Pepa
Chief, Public Affairs
Office of Premier Taptuna
867-975-5059
Contact for Greenland:
Amalie Jessen
Head of Department for Hunting and Agriculture
Ministry of Fisheries, Hunting and Agriculture
+ 299 553342