OPINION

Sealing
By: Jennifer F., Roncalli Central High, Port Saunders, NF

Last night as I was watched the news on television, I was deeply disturbed by one of the articles. The focus of the article was 'Green Peace Organization' and their fight against the seal fishery in Newfoundland. As a Newfoundlander from a fishing community, I strongly disagree with the Green Peace Organization. I understand the importance of the seal fishery in Newfoundland.

Since the end of the cod fishery in 1994 the Newfoundland fishing industry has become nearly obsolete. Newfoundland fishers, along with the many other people who work in this area, have not been able to support their families. They are forced to seek government assistance. For them, the seal fishery offers new hope to regain the independence they once had.

The sealing industry motivates the spirit of the community. It is inspiring to see the community fleet of boats leaving our harbor and knowing that when they return they will be bringing something back to the community. My uncle owns and operates one of these sealing boats. When he makes a sealing trip I cannot wait for him to return. I want to know all about the exciting adventure he has been on, "How many seals did you get? Where there any close calls? How were the ice conditions?"

Organizations like Green Peace do not understand. They concentrate only on the negative effects of sealing. They fail to see the positive effects the seal hunt has on small communities. Sealing has been a part of our livelihood for hundreds of years. It is a part of who we are and our unique culture. If people such as Green Peace and others think we should stop sealing then they really don't know Newfoundland and its culture.

LINKS:

Canadian Sealers Association

Newfoundland & Labrador Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture