New funds for "health of oceans" a drop in the sea

October 10, 2007 VANCOUVER -- A federal investment of $42.5 million over three years for Canada's oceans isn't nearly enough for an ecosystem-based management approach to protecting the seas, according to the David Suzuki Foundation.

Fisheries and Oceans Minister Loyola Hearn announced yesterday (October 9) that the federal government is adding the funds to the $19 million announced in the government's 2007 budget, bringing the five-year commitment to $61.5 million. Minister Hearn noted that much of the money will go toward oil-spill response plans and conservation measures in Arctic waters.

"Although this is a valuable contribution toward marine conservation, it falls far short of the amount necessary to implement a comprehensive ocean-conservation plan," said David Suzuki Foundation senior conservation specialist Bill Wareham. "We are calling on the government to provide $600 million over five years to reform ocean industries and establish a system of marine protected areas that is much larger than what the government has proposed."

Mr. Wareham said much of the money is going into already existing programs, with very little going toward the establishment of multi-sector dialogue and strategic planning necessary to resolve the tough issues facing our oceans. Those issues include global warming, destructive fishing practices, and potentially dangerous industrial activity -- including increased oil and gas exploration and tanker traffic in Arctic and other waters.

Ian Hanington, Communications Specialist, (604) 732-4228, ext. 238