asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if he will give details of the proposed deer management plans at Gweedore Forests 1 and 2, if he will meet with representatives of local concerned groups before taking a policy decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Gweedore (Donegal) Deer.
18.
My Department are now completing their examination of available options for the management of deer on certain State forest properties in the Gweedore area of County Donegal. I feel that no useful purpose would be served by my having discussions with local interests at this stage but I suggest that they should submit their views on the matter to my Department so that they can be fully considered before final decisions are reached.
I am glad to hear there have been no final decisions taken as yet. If it is proposed to depart from standard practices of entrusting management to local communities, would the Minister be willing to meet a deputation of the very active and responsible Donegal Deer Society, that is, if he intends departing from traditional or accepted management practices?
As the Deputy knows, there are divided opinions on this topic in the Donegal area, including the Donegal Deer Society and other individual deer-hunters. As I said in my reply, if their views are submitted to my Department it may mean I would be in a position to consider meeting a deputation in the future.