NUNAVUT - Nunavut's premier and minister of environment are applauding an attempt by the Canadian government to reverse a European Union ban on seal product trade.

On Nov. 3 the federal government requested World Trade Organization (WTO) consultations on the ban. Premier Eva Aariak and Nunavut Minister of Environment Daniel Shewchuk issued a press release Nov. 4 supporting the move.

"We must dispel the myths and misinformation of anti-seal hunt lobby groups to defend the interests of Canadian sealers," Shewchuk stated. "The message must be loud and clear: the seal hunt is a sustainable and vital part of our cultural identity, our way of life, and our economic well-being."

The European Union banned trade in seal products in July. The consultation requested by the federal government is the first step in trying to overturn the ban, which the government is trying to do on the basis that it violates several international trade rules.