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)