SoVote

Bill C-251

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

June 15, 2022

Bill C-251, called the Conservation of Fish Stocks and Management of Pinnipeds Act, requires the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to develop a federal framework on the conservation of fish stocks and management of pinnipeds, which are marine mammals like seals, sea lions, and walruses. The framework aims to address the harmful effects of pinniped overpopulation on marine ecosystems and fishing activities. It includes measures such as conducting yearly pinniped censuses, regulating and controlling pinniped populations, promoting the use of anti-predator mechanisms, and addressing trade barriers on seal products. The Minister will prepare reports on the framework's effectiveness annually and publish them on the Department of Fisheries and Oceans' website.

Steelman Argument in Favor of Bill C-251: Bill C-251, "An Act respecting the development of a federal framework on the conservation of fish stocks and management of pinnipeds," is a necessary measure to address the negative impacts of pinniped overpopulation on marine ecosystems and fishing communities in Canada. Pinnipeds, such as seals, sea lions, and walruses, are natural predators of fish, molluscs, and crustaceans. However, large populations of pinnipeds have been causing significant mortalities among these marine species, damaging fishing equipment, and harming marine ecosystems. This has detrimental implications for both the environment and the livelihoods of fishing communities. The enactment of this bill aims to protect marine species and their environment by controlling and reducing pinniped predation. It requires the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to develop a federal framework in consultation with provincial governments

Steelman Argument opposing Bill C-251: One potential steelman argument opposing Bill C-251 is that the proposed federal framework on the conservation of fish stocks and management of pinnipeds may not be necessary or effective in achieving its intended goals. Firstly, opponents may argue that there is insufficient evidence to support the claim that pinnipeds are responsible for significant fish mortalities, damage to fishing equipment, and harm to marine ecosystems. The impact of pinnipeds on fish stocks may be exaggerated, and other factors such as climate change, pollution, and overfishing may have a more significant influence on declining fish populations. Therefore, implementing a federal framework solely focused on pinniped management may not address the root causes of declining fish stocks. Secondly, opponents may argue that regulating pinniped populations based on historic levels and levels in other countries may not be appro