Cod Fishery in NunatuKavut a success!
On October 13, 2022, NCC’s Environmental and Natural Resources department organized an event called “The Cod Fishery in Nunatukavut.” It marked 30 years since the cod moratorium but also the longstanding connection that NunatuKavut Inuit have with cod. It has been the lifeblood of our communities and people for many generations.
Governing Councillor Boyce Turnbull was on hand to deliver some welcoming remark on behalf of President Todd Russell and the Governing Council.
“Many of our people and communities relied on this fishery right up to the cod moratorium in 1992…we all remember the feeling of loss and uncertainty about what was to come…as devastating as the moratorium was, our survival is a testament to the great legacy left by generations of our people. Those who have continued fishing for other species, and now cod once again, and those that adapted and continued to hunt and harvest. Today, and each day forward, we hold our ground, and we move with the tides, just as our Inuit ancestors have done. That unwavering spirit and resiliency have and will continue to carry us through both dark and good times. That same spirit is present here today inside every one of us.”
Boyce Turnbull, Governing Councillor for Area 3, Bolster’s Rock to Spear Point
The day started with the setting of a traditional cod trap, the first time that a cod trap had been set for cod in NunatuKavut since the moratorium. While the setting of cod traps traditionally take place earlier in the season, it was done as a demonstration for the event. Other exciting activities included storytelling, learning how to clean fish, hauling nets and jigging. Lots of traditional food was also available, which of course included a fish and brewis supper.
It was wonderful to have our NunatuKavut Youth Community Engagement Project team there to help record the day. The entire school from William Gillett Academy in Charlottetown took a field trip day to attend and, by all accounts, thoroughly enjoyed the event.
“Today was a day my students and I will cherish forever. So grateful to the staff of NunatuKavut and the volunteers who made the cod celebration happen today and allowed us to take our learning to a deeper level through connecting with our elders and the land.”
Desirae Burden, Teacher at William Gillett Academy
Our sincere appreciation to all who attended, participated and helped out in any way. Thank you for sharing your time and your stories with us. It was a tremendous day!
