Conservative members of the House committee on fisheries and oceans have expressed concerns regarding the establishment of marine protected areas by the federal government to achieve its conservation goals by 2030. They have raised issues about the lack of consultation with fishermen in their coastal areas and fear that the plan might 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, voiced strong opposition towards the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), citing deep resentment among fishermen. In response, officials from various government departments, including DFO, Parks Canada, and the Department of the Environment, defended their approach but acknowledged the need for better engagement and communication with the fishing industry.
Kathy Graham, director general of marine planning and conservation at DFO, emphasized the efforts to minimize socioeconomic impacts when designating marine protected areas. She explained that fishing activities are still allowed in many protected zones, with restrictions only in areas posing risks to conservation objectives.
The discussion also touched on the 30×30 conservation objective, aiming to protect 30% of Canada’s land and water by 2030. Conservative MP Clifford Small raised concerns about the trust in the process, citing limitations on fishing activities in the St. Anns Bank Marine Protected Area in Nova Scotia.
Critics, including Conservative MPs, questioned the scientific basis of the 30×30 goal, labeling it as more political than scientific. Officials clarified that the target was derived from 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 highlighted the global commitment to protect biodiversity and address climate change through the 30% conservation target. While acknowledging Canada’s lag behind the U.S. in meeting the goals, officials expressed optimism about Canada’s ability to catch up and fulfill its commitments.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans for an updated national nature strategy to align with Canada’s biodiversity objectives. The committee is set to commence a study on marine protected areas in the upcoming year to further explore these conservation initiatives.