Animal Protection Party demands Fisheries Minister"s resignation in Toronto
- The Animal Protection Party of Canada called for Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier's resignation due to her decision to increase the northern cod fishing quota.
- This decision contradicted scientific recommendations aimed at protecting the declining cod population and prioritizing Indigenous and inshore fishers.
- The party emphasized the need for ministers committed to environmental responsibility and integrity, urging the Prime Minister to take action.
On September 12, 2024, the Animal Protection Party of Canada publicly called for the resignation of Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier. This demand arose following a report by Radio-Canada that revealed the Minister ignored scientific recommendations from her department regarding the northern cod population. Staff had advised maintaining a moratorium on cod fishing and prioritizing inshore and Indigenous fishers, but the Minister opted to increase the fishing quota instead, prioritizing political gain over ecological sustainability. Party Leader Liz White condemned this decision, emphasizing the need for ministers who prioritize integrity and scientific advice over political expediency. She highlighted the potential long-term damage to the cod population and the broader North Atlantic ecosystem, which has already suffered from decades of over-fishing. The call for resignation reflects a broader concern about the government's commitment to environmental responsibility. The Prime Minister, who has positioned his government as a leader in climate action, faces criticism for allowing such decisions that contradict his stated values. The Animal Protection Party urged him to take a firm stance on this issue, advocating for the protection of the cod population from further exploitation. Barry MacKay, General Manager of the Animal Protection Party, echoed these sentiments, warning that the Minister's actions could lead to catastrophic consequences reminiscent of past environmental disasters in Newfoundland and Labrador. The party's call for change underscores the urgent need for responsible governance in the face of ecological challenges.