Association calls for aid in replacing traps

Page R2

A European ban on furs obtained through the use of leg-hold traps has Canadian trappers looking for alternative markets.

At the annual convention of the Northern Fur Conservation Area Trappers Association held in Prince Albert, Sask. Feb. 4-7, members discussed sending a delegation to Asia to investigate the potential market.

The European market buys 75 per cent of all Canadian furs. But as of Jan. 1, 1995, European companies will only buy furs taken from animals killed in quick-kill and humane traps. The major obstacle for Canada's 50,000 Aboriginal trappers in complying with the ban is the expense, say representatives. The more humane trap are costly, running up to $40 each, as opposed to leg-hold traps which cost approximately $10. Trappers want the federal government to help finance the switch from leg-hold to humane traps.

Members also expressed concern about a lack, of guidelines on which traps will be acceptable to the European markets next year. To date, the ban on leg-hold traps extends to 12 species of animals trapped in Canada, including beaver, muskrat and marten. However, the ban doesn't apply to trapping wolf, coyote, fox, lynx and bobcat.

Metis hunting rights in Saskatchewan were furthered during the convention as members passed a resolution to ask the province government to recognize the rights of Metis hunters. Trappers association president Louie Morin said hunting goes beyond being a right for Natives during these times of high unemployment, it is essential for survival among many northern communities.