asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that game preserves in South Tipperary are being run down and destroyed by indiscriminate shooting of pheasant, grouse and partridge, including hen birds; and that grave anxiety is being felt by local gun clubs because even recently restocked preserves are being destroyed in this way; if he will take steps to remedy this situation by the appointment of official game wardens and by the control or prohibition of the selling of game to traders until stocks are built up again; and if he will consider creating new game preserves in State forest lands.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - South Tipperary Game Preserves.
25.
I am not aware that the position is as stated in the question. As the Deputy will know, prosecutions for game offences lie with the Garda Síochána whilst associations recognised under section 15 of the Game Preservation Act, 1930, are empowered to prosecute in relation to their own preserves. I may say that, while the appointment of official game wardens is not envisaged, proposals to amend existing statutory controls regarding the sale of game are being examined by my Department.
As regards the final part of the question, the game potential of State forest lands, on which sporting rights are held by my Department, are fully exploited and further game development is under consideration.
Is it illegal now to shoot a hen pheasant?
Definitely.
Yes.
Yes. It is completely forbidden.