This section provides links to seal-related reports produced by the Department of Fisheries (DFO) Canada. Click here for the full report on the DFO website

These reports include:

• results of public opinion polling,

• conclusions of stock surveys,

• and seal hunt management plans.

The purpose of this Integrated Fisheries Management Plan (IFMP) is to identify the main objectives and requirements for the Atlantic seal fishery, as well as the management measures that will be used to achieve these objectives. This document also serves to communicate the basic information on the fishery and its management to DFO staff, sealers, legislated co-management boards and other stakeholders. This IFMP provides for more informed stakeholder input into management decisions, and promotes a common understanding of the basic “rules” for the sustainable management of the fisheries resource.

This IFMP is not a legally binding instrument which can form the basis of a legal challenge. The IFMP can be modified at any time and does not fetter the Minister’s discretionary powers set out in the Fisheries Act. The Minister can, for reasons of conservation or for any other valid reasons, modify any provision of the IFMP in accordance with the powers granted pursuant to the Fisheries Act.

Where DFO is responsible for implementing obligations under land claims agreements, the IFMP will be implemented in a manner consistent with these obligations. In the event that an IFMP is inconsistent with obligations under land claims agreements, the provisions of the land claims agreements will prevail to the extent of the inconsistency.