In the week leading up to World Ocean Day, CPAWS hosted a reception on Parliament Hill with the All-Party Ocean Caucus, co-chaired by MPs Scott Simms and Fin Donnelly.  The reception was also a venue to officially release our report, this year comparing marine protection in North America. CPAWS partnered with the Marine Conservation Institute (MCI) and found that Canada, Mexico and the USA have a long way to go, collectively and individually, to reach international and national targets to protect at least 10% of the continental ocean estate. Unfortunately, Canada is furthest behind in protecting its ocean estate with only 0.11% protected. Read the full report and media coverage The reception greeted dozens of MPs and a number of Ministers, including the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Coast Guard and Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Special guests made remarks including, Mexican Ambassador Agustin Gracia-Lopez Loaeza and the Counselor for Energy, Environment, Science, Technology and Health, David Birdsey from the US Embassy.

And of course our mascot Baleen was also in the room posing for selfies with the guests. Guests enjoyed sustainable seafood provided by the Whalesbone Catering. It was a great kick off to Ocean Day! More pictures from the event on Parliament Hill can be found on our Facebook page.