Conservative lawmakers on the House fisheries and oceans committee are expressing reservations regarding the establishment of marine protected areas by the federal government to achieve its conservation objectives by 2030. They are highlighting concerns that local fishermen have not been adequately consulted and fear that the initiative may lead to the closure of fishing grounds, impacting their livelihoods.
During a recent committee meeting, Aaron Gunn, Conservative MP for North Island-Powell River on Vancouver Island, criticized the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), stating that there is widespread discontent among fishermen towards the department.
Government officials from various departments, including DFO, Parks Canada, the Department of the Environment, and the Office of the Auditor General of Canada, refuted claims that all fisheries within marine protected areas would cease operations. However, they acknowledged the need for improved communication and engagement with the fishing industry.
Kathy Graham, director general of marine planning and conservation at DFO, emphasized the efforts to minimize socioeconomic impacts by adjusting boundaries of marine protected areas to reduce disruptions to fishing activities. She explained that fishing is allowed in many protected areas, except where it conflicts with conservation goals.
Conservative MP Clifford Small raised concerns about the 30×30 conservation target, questioning its scientific basis and suggesting it may be more politically motivated. Officials clarified that the target was established as part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to address biodiversity loss and climate change.
There were doubts raised by Conservative MPs about the support for the 30×30 goal among marine biologists, with Gunn questioning the scientific rationale behind the target. Commissioner Jerry DeMarco highlighted that while the target was a negotiated figure, it was crucial in ramping up conservation efforts to combat biodiversity loss.
DeMarco mentioned that the U.S. is currently ahead of Canada in meeting the 30×30 targets, but expressed optimism that Canada is on track to achieve its goals. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans for an updated national nature strategy to fulfill Canada’s biodiversity commitments. The committee is set to commence a study on marine protected areas in the coming year.