Thank you for your testimony, Mr. Rangeley.
I don’t have any choice but to talk about the seal file. I represent Gaspésie and the Magdalen Islands. I’m not going to get into a scientific debate, but I’m going to tell you my opinion and I’ll ask you a question.
In view of the drop in the cod population, the “seal factor” takes on greater significance. This is no longer a situation in which the cod population is healthy and marine resources are abundant. In these conditions, whether we like it or not, seals are having more impact. You say that there is not a cause-and-effect relationship. That reminds me of the fact that there are more shrimp because there is less cod. This is a cause-and-effect relationship. That’s my opinion. I’m not going to get into a scientific debate, unless you really insist on it. It’s for you to see.
You say you agree that there should be a properly run seal hunt, as is the case now. However, the people from the International Fund for Animal Welfare and the Humane Society give me the impression of acting just for the money it brings them. Maybe they just want there to no longer be a seal hunt, but I’m not even sure of that. Maybe it’s in their interest for it to last so that it will make them even more money. Their arguments have no scientific basis. It is disinformation, demagogy.
What do you think about the campaign against the seal hunt led by the people from the International Fund for Animal Welfare and the Humane Society?
You hesitate. Silence gives consent?