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JERRY J. OUELLETTE, MPP			
OSHAWA						
Constituency Office:						
170 Athol St. E.						
Oshawa, ON						
L1H 1K1							
Phone (905)-723-2411					
Fax (905)-723-1054						
		
March 11, 2005

Dear Mr. Theriault:

Thank you for your e-mail regarding your research on the Heritage Hunting and Fishing Act 2002. As is stated in the preamble, the Act recognizes the important roles that hunting and fishing have played in shaping Ontario's heritage. It also reaffirms the importance of these traditional activities and the desireable effect they have on the conservation of Ontario's fish and wildlife resources. 
Since the passing of this Act in 2002, other provinces and territories have developed similar legislation.
As you are aware, the Fish and Wildlife Heritage Commission replaced the former Fish and Wildlife Advisory Board as an advisory committee to the Minister of Natural Resources. The Commission and its mandate are strengthened and secured through legislation. That is, to advise the Minister on fish and wildlife matters, and also to promote the practices and opportunities of hunting and fishing in Ontario for now and for the future. I feel that only through the understanding and education of the children of today that these traditional activities will continue.
I have always appreciated  the significant cultural and conservation benefits that trapping has provided to our province and our country. I spent considerable time consulting with individual trappers and trapping organizations prior to introducing this legislation. It was agreed that since fur harvesting was a for-profit enterprise, that it should be considered in separate Ministry policies and business agreements and not be included in this legislation.
Thank you for the kind words on my speech to the legislature. I always treasure the memories of hunting and fishing in northern Ontario. I wish you well with your research and thanks again for the e-mail.

Yours Sincerely,

Jerry J. Ouellette, MPP Oshawa
Natural Resources Critic, Official Opposition