(L-R) Doug Chaisson, Executive Director of the Fur Institute of Canada – FIC, Brian Dicks, Treasurer on the Executive for the Fur Institute of Canada, Darren Halleran, Always in Vogue, Chief Jenny Brake, Qalipu First Nation, Taalrumiq, Artist from Inuvik, NWT, Kendall Flood, CEO Ár n-oileán Resources Ltd and president of Caboto Seafoods Ltd.
As we commemorate National Seal Products Day this month, we are reminded of the profound significance that seals hold within our communities and Indigenous populations. This occasion allows us to not only celebrate our cultural heritage but also to recognize the vital role that the seal fishery plays in sustaining our way of life.
Recently, as your Canadian Seal Ambassador, I had the privilege of representing our Nation in Ottawa for discussions surrounding the sealing industry. Participating in the National Seal Products Day festivities was an opportunity to showcase our commitment to the sustainable harvesting of seals and the promotion of Canadian seal products with the Seals and Sealing Network.
We are particularly proud to highlight the endeavors of Qalipu Holdings Limited, our business investment arm, and its subsidiary, Mi’kmaq Commercial Fisheries. Through their efforts, we have introduced our very own WASPU seal oil product to markets worldwide. WASPU Oil, derived from seals blubber through humane and sustainable practices, not only benefits human consumption but also serves the pet market. Please follow them on Instagram and Facebook @waspuoil and the website is www.waspu.ca for more information.
During our many discussions with Ministers, Senators, and MP’s we emphasized our commitment to environmental stewardship and our dedication to maintaining a balanced and healthy ecosystem, essential for the well-being of our communities, both environmentally and economically.
As many of you are aware, the overpopulation of seals has significantly impacted various sectors, including fish harvesting, processing, marketing, and support services. In response, Qalipu First Nation took proactive steps by conducting our inaugural seal harvesting training program in 2023 and more then doubled our attendance for 2024.With our members becoming certified in Humane Harvesting, this marks a milestone in our efforts towards sustainable resource management.
Looking ahead, I am pleased to announce that planning is underway for our 2025 training program, reaffirming our commitment to equipping our members with the necessary skills to engage in seal harvesting responsibly and ethically. We will continue to promote our Waspu brand of products in Canada and on the global stage.
As we celebrate National Seal Products Day, let us continue to champion the cultural and economic significance of seals within our communities. Together, we can ensure a prosperous future for generations to come, rooted in respect for our traditions and the environment.
