Minister Aglukkaq announces investment in Nunavut Sealing Industry

Research and training to increase knowledge of vital species

IQALUIT, July 31, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council today announced a two-year investment that will support training, marketing and research in Nunavut's seal and long fur industry.

This project will build on the cultural and economic importance of ringed seals in Nunavut. A combination of new scientific research and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) will increase understanding of ringed seals. Funding will also be used to support the marketing of Aboriginal produced seal products in Europe. Finally, workshops will introduce harvesters to new and traditional techniques to improve quality of pelts, ensuring better prices.

Quick Facts

• The Government of Canada is investing $260,740 over two years, with the Government of Nunavut's Department of Environment contributing $115,060. Universities are contributing $69,560 for a total investment of $445,360.
• An agreement between Canada and the European Union grants an exemption on Aboriginal seal products - such as fur, meat and clothing - in Europe. Funding will be used to provide training on skin and fur preparation techniques using IQ and other techniques to support implementation of this exemption.
• Seal and long furs are some of the most valued resources in the North and are an important source of income for hunters. Nunavut's sealskin and fur sales exceeded $736,000 in 2014.

Quotes

"Our Government has championed Canada's seal hunt at home and on the world stage. We understand the importance of a sustainable and diversified economy that includes strong traditional industries. Today's investment will support research, training and marketing in Nunavut's sealing industry, which will help create good, well-paying jobs and increase prosperity for Nunavummiut."

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister for the Arctic Council

"The Government of Nunavut is committed to supporting Nunavut's harvesters. This welcome investment from CanNor will help to build capacity at the local level which in turn will help to strengthen the traditional economy of the territory."

Johnny Mike
Minister of Environment, Government of Nunavut

Associated Links  

Nunavut and NWT seek to expand fur markets overseas
http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=828239&_ga=1.208993618.1510950768.1410962092

CanNor invests in Nunavut's traditional economy
http://www.cannor.gc.ca/eng/1387379850945/1387379886096

CanNor works to help develop a diversified, sustainable and dynamic economy across Canada's three territories, and delivers on its northern mandate through funding programs, the Northern Projects Management Office and by undertaking policy and research.

For more information about CanNor, visit cannor.gc.ca

For more information on Canada's Northern Strategy, visit: northernstrategy.ca

SOURCE Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

For further information: Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Ted Laking, 819-997-1441; Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, Krisandra Reid, Communications Advisor, Yukon Region, 867-667-3210; Proponent/partner contact person, Tana Silverland, Communications Manager, 867-975-7761