Conservative lawmakers serving on the House committee focused on fisheries and oceans have expressed reservations regarding the establishment of marine protected areas by the federal government to achieve its conservation targets by 2030. They have highlighted concerns that local fishermen in their coastal constituencies have not been adequately consulted and fear that the initiative may lead to the closure of fishing areas, impacting their livelihoods.
During a recent committee meeting, Aaron Gunn, Conservative Member of Parliament 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. In response, officials from DFO, Parks Canada, the Department of the Environment, and the Office of the Auditor General of Canada defended the establishment of marine protected areas, indicating that not all fisheries within these areas would be completely shut down.
Acknowledging the need for improved engagement with the fishing industry, Kathy Graham, the director general of marine planning and conservation at DFO, emphasized that efforts are made to minimize the socioeconomic impacts of the protected areas by adjusting boundaries accordingly.
Regarding the 30×30 conservation objective aimed at protecting 30% of Canada’s land and water by 2030, Conservative MP Clifford Small raised questions about the impact on fishermen. He cited the case of the St. Anns Bank Marine Protected Area in Nova Scotia, where fishing activities, particularly for commercial purposes, are restricted despite assurances given to fishermen.
Additionally, there are concerns among Conservative MPs about the scientific basis behind the 30×30 goal. Aaron Gunn questioned whether the target is driven by scientific reasoning or political motives. Officials clarified that the target was established as part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted at the COP15 United Nations Biodiversity Conference in Montreal in December 2022.
Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development Jerry DeMarco explained that while the 30×30 target is a negotiated agreement, it reflects a global recognition of the need to enhance conservation efforts to address climate change and biodiversity loss effectively.
DeMarco highlighted that the United States is currently ahead of Canada in meeting the 30×30 targets, but expressed optimism that Canada is on track to fulfill its commitments. Prime Minister Mark Carney has indicated that the government will soon unveil an updated national nature strategy to align with Canada’s biodiversity goals. The committee is set to commence a study on marine protected areas in the upcoming year.
