asked the Minister for Fisheries if he has yet made regulations under subsection (5) of section 44 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, designating bodies which may bring summary proceedings under the section for the unlawful hunting of wild birds or animals; if not, why, and the reason for the delay; and if he will indicate who had or has the responsibility for instituting such proceedings, pending the making of such regulations in the time since the repeal of the provisions of earlier Acts in the matter.
Written Answers. - Wildlife Act, 1976.
286.
Regulations under the subsection mentioned have recently been made by me. As a result, some 670 bodies have been afforded statutory recognition and it will be open to them to proceed in accordance with section 44 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, in relation to trespass on lands over which the sporting rights have been reserved by them.
I should add that the provisions of the Act also enable the owner or occupier of trespassed land or any individual entitled to sporting rights over such land to prosecute for trespass under section 44. In addition, the Minister for Fisheries or the Garda can bring proceedings in relation to any offence under the Act.
287.
asked the Minister for Fisheries the number of convictions that have been recorded up to 1st November, 1977, under the Wildlife Act, 1976, since it became operative on 1st June, 1977.
No prosecutions have been taken by me or by persons authorised by me under the Wildlife Act, 1976, as yet and I have no information at present as to whether prosecutions have been undertaken by the Garda or recognised bodies under the Act.
288.
asked the Minister for Fisheries when he proposes to appoint authorised persons as laid down in section 72 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, to assist in having the legislation implemented.
This matter is at present under consideration. I am not yet in a position to say when appointments will be made but there will be no avoidable delay.