(June 20, 2011 – Iqaluit, Nunavut) Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. Chief Executive Officer Terry Audla announced today an alternative resolution to NTI’s application for Judicial Review of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s decision in 2010 respecting Narwhal.
“DFO and NTI have agreed on the necessity of meaningful, timely consultations by Government with Inuit on issues that may have an impact on Inuit rights pursuant to the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement including decisions on narwhal harvesting and trade,” Said Audla. “DFO has agreed to work with NTI to avoid unexpected decisions affecting Inuit.”
In an agreement signed on June 17, 2011, NTI and DFO recognized the importance of sustainable international trade of wildlife parts to the cultural, social and economic well-being of Inuit. Both parties will work cooperatively on the CITES process to ensure the continued trade of wildlife parts is done in a way that reflects the principles of conservation.
NTI and DFO will participate in a governance workshop on narwhals with co-management partners this summer. The workshop will consider the roles and responsibilities of the co-management partners in narwhal management systems and research. In collaboration with partners, NTI and DFO will review current scientific knowledge gaps in Jones Sound with narwhal and identify ways forward to address these gaps in a timely way.
NTI and DFO will participate in reviewing management regime options, proposed harvest levels, allocation models, potential non quota limitations, integrated Fisheries Management Plan options and consultation plans.
In January 2011, NTI filed an application for judicial review challenging the DFO’s decision to ban export of narwhal tusks and related products from 17 Nunavut communities.
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For further information:
PJ Akeeagok
Acting Director of Communications
Tel: (867) 975-4939 Toll-free: 1-888-646-0006
Cell: 867-222-1821
