Bill C-501 gives hunters recognition

By Mo Cranker

BELLEVILLE – A day to honour Canadian outdoorsmen got final approval recently, giving this group the recognition they deserve, said the local MP behind the bill.

Northumberland-Quinte West MP Rick Norlock was behind the National Hunting, Trapping and Fishing Heritage Day, a piece of legislation he has been trying to get Royal Assent since 2007.

Bill C-501 was granted Royal Assent by the Government of Canada on Nov. 6, marking every third Saturday of September will be dedicated to hunters, fishers and trappers across Canada.

“Simply put, I think it gives hunters, trappers and anglers appreciation for their work,” said Norlock.

Norlock and the majority of his family members hunt and he believes that the Bill should hit home with hunters, anglers and trappers across Canada.

“I know this bill will mean a lot to hunters, anglers and trappers across Canada. For me, it is a part of the Norlock DNA.”

Norlock wants C-501 to help people understand the importance of the hunting, fishing and trapping industries throughout Canada’s history and in today’s society.

“People need to realize that there are more people involved in hunting and fishing than hockey and golf combined,” he said.

Commercial and recreational angling contribute from $10 billion to $12 billion combined to Canada’s economy and the passing of Bill C-501 helps emphasis that, said Norlock.

Greg Farrant, the manager of government affairs and policy for the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, supports the bill and is pleased that the bill reached Royal Assent.

“It gives us a focus to celebrate and it helps us drive home to the public the impact of these activities,” said Farrant.

As a hunter himself, Farrant understands the importance of hunting, trapping and angling to Canada’s heritage and economy.

“It’s a recognition of the heritage and these activities are cultural activities. We play an important role in Canada’s economy too, these three activities create $14 billion annually.”

He believes that a day to commemorate fishers, hunters and trappers is necessary to preserving their roles in the making of Canada into what it is today.

Both Norlock and Farrant said they wanted National Hunting, Trapping and Fishing Heritage Day to become a big day for all Canadians over the years.