Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024
195. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the way he plans to ensure rural interests such as those of farmers and game clubs are fully included in discussions and consultations regarding future policy on hunting and conservation, including discussions and consultations at ministerial-level meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22298/24]
View answerMy Department is committed to consultation with relevant interested parties in relation to ongoing policy decisions on hunting and conservation. In addition to ongoing communication on a wide range of issues pertaining to the work of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), including conservation schemes, there are a number of structures in place to ensure communication in relation to rural interests. Meetings at both Official and Ministerial level occur where possible.
My Department is also currently undertaking a review of wildlife legislation, which includes the laws governing conservation and the hunting of wildlife. As part of this work, my Department has held preliminary discussions with 18 national representative organisations, including farmer groups, hunting groups, and environmental groups. My Department is open to further discussions with these and other national groups as this project develops. The first phase of formal public consultation in relation to the update of legislation will commence soon and this will be open to all interested parties.
