Media and charities barred from witnessing start of annual seal cull in Canada
(mar. 28, 2008)
mirror.co.uk

The Mirror was among media and charities barred last night from witnessing the start of the annual seal cull in Canada.

The authorities refused to give permits to the press and animal groups.

Every year thousands of baby harp seals are clubbed to death by hunters on the ice fields.

Many are skinned alive and their pelts sent to dealers in Asia and Russia.

This year's quota is 275,000 seals. Many could be slaughtered in one day before observers are allowed out on the ice.

Caroline Lucas, UK Green MEP, said: "It's outrageous that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans seems to be preventing people from witnessing the seal cull.

"Their unwillingness shows the Canadians have something to hide and don't wish the world to see what is really going on."