We are told that DFO takes sealing infractions seriously. What could happen if a sealer violates the regulations?
Sealers who fail to observe humane hunting practices, licence conditions, and catch requirements are penalized. Any violations of Canada’s regulations are taken very seriously – between 2003 and 2007, over 800 seal fishery violations were detected and 180 charges were laid, resulting in approximately 100 convictions. The consequences of such illegal actions are decided by the court and could include court-imposed fines and the forfeiting of catches, fishing gear, vessels and licences. In a 2008 court decision, a sealer was fined $25,000 and prohibited from participating in the first (and most lucrative) day of the 2009 hunt.