The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture:

Speaker, big game applications are now open, and this season’s management plan is mapped out in the 2025-26 Hunting and Trapping Guide.

With only minimal quota changes required for the upcoming season, I am happy to report that current population trends for most game and furbearer species are stable.

Thanks to the resounding success of the recent Grey Island caribou re-location program, we are extending the season in this area.

We are also extending the fall black bear season on the Island of Newfoundland and re-structuring black bear management areas to broaden hunter opportunities.

A new trapper’s beaver licence will permit trapping in unoccupied traplines – but will not affect traplines currently assigned to trappers and vacant traplines with waitlists.

Speaker, wildlife management is a collaborative effort. I am grateful to the many rod and gun clubs, organizations, businesses and volunteers who promote safe and responsible outdoor activities for youth and adults.

Their work is vital to the management, conservation and continued enjoyment of our wildlife resources, and it is deeply appreciated.

Speaker, along with their essential contribution to food self-sufficiency, hunting and trapping have a tremendous impact on mental and physical well-being.

The continued importance of traditional outdoor pursuits is a heartening reminder of who we are, and how much we value our natural resources.

Thank you.