Dunne – Big Game Hunting Council must go ahead
UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne has challenged the Government to honour the recommendations of the Deer, Chamois, Tahr and Pigs Consultation Panel and set up a Big Game Hunting Council as an advocate for New Zealand hunters.
The Deer, Chamois, Tahr and Pigs Consultation Panel was jointly set up by UnitedFuture and the Labour Government as part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement signed after the 2005 election.
“The Panel’s report came out in April with a clear set of recommendations designed to improve management of the four big game species and promote greater hunter involvement in conservation and recreation initiatives.
“One recommendation specifically outlined the establishment of a Big Game Hunting Council to encourage participation in hunting, act as an advocate for hunter interests, and reduce conflict between hunters, conservationists and landowners.
“I had expected more progress by now on implementing these recommendations, and am very disappointed that the Minister of Conservation seems to be dragging her heels over this after such a robust and comprehensive consultation process.
“I hope this does not mean the whole process has been hijacked by departmental ideologues who have no desire to promote recreational initiatives in this country.”
... Read the full text of this article.
