asked the Minister for lands whether he is aware that Denmark, Germany and Switzerland ban completely the killing of otters by hunting; and that the World Federation for the Preservation of Animals has stated that the hunting and killing with hounds of otters is unknown on the Continent of Europe; and whether he will make an investigation into the effect of such hunting on the Irish population of otters; and pending its results, institute a temporary ban on such hunting.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Otter Hunting.
81.
Under existing legislation here for the protection of animals, the hunting of any wild animal is lawful unless it be accompanied by or involves the infliction of unnecessary suffering. The legislation does not provide for the imposition of a ban, temporary or permanent, on the hunting of wild animals.
The question of the protection of otters will be considered in the context of proposals for comprehensive legislation for the conservation of wildlife which are under consideration in my Department.
Could the Minister say when he expects those proposals to appear in formal legislation? Does he think otters will still be left in the country by the time that legislation comes before the House?
I do not think otters do any great harm. I think it might not be a bad idea not to interfere with them.
I shall look into the question of a temporary ban. Candidly I do not know enough about this.
Neither do I.
It never prevented you before from talking.
I ask the Minister to consider it sympathetically.
Has the Minister in mind a temporary ban pending legislation?
Yes.