I agree, but look at those numbers. 325,000 pups in one year with a current population of over 5 million.
The idea that there will not be dramatic economic results to the fishing community without these culls cannot be taken seriously. Imagine even a 50% natural survival rate and you are talking about doubling the population of Harp seals in about a decade.
You are absolutely right, murder is a wonderful way to handle the problem of overpopulation. With so many homeless and starving people in the world, perhaps this would work for humans as well. Where do you suggest we start?