Mr. Speaker, last week I attended the fall meeting of the Atlantic Council of Fisheries Ministers. We discussed the declining groundfish stocks in the Saint Lawrence Gulf and south of Newfoundland, and the potential impact of grey and harp seals on these fish.

As quotas for southern groundfish stocks decline, fishermen will look elsewhere for places to fish. In the north, our fishery is just starting. I emphasized to the federal government that northern groundfish quotas and licences should not be increased until we know the size and sustainable harvest levels of our northern fish stocks.

Since the market for sealskins declined, seal populations have been increasing. Many Baffin residents are worried about the increase of harp seals. In the Maritimes, Atlantic grey seals are becoming infested with parasites. The Ministers agreed to establish a working committee to make recommendations on the problems. The first meeting will be in January.

Mr. Speaker, I believe it is important to participate at these meetings. In this way, we can ensure that northern concerns are heard and that our needs are reflected in decisions. Thank you.