Michael Creed
Question:46 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Finance the legislation/regulations which are available to protect native and migratory birds from extinction through overshooting.
Written Answers. - Wildlife Protection.
The EC Directive on the conservation of wild birds, No. 409 of 1979, establishes a system of general protection for all wild birds throughout the member states of the European Community. This Directive is implemented in Ireland under the provisions of the Wildlife Act, 1976. Statutory Instrument No. 397 of 1985 [European Communities (Wildlife Act, 1976) (Amendment) Regulations 1985] refers.
Hunting of all game species, including migratory, is reviewed each year having regard to the conservation status of the species. If scientific evidence suggests that a particular game species is under threat it will be removed from the open season order made under the Wildlife Act, 1976. A copy of the open season order for 1990 is being included in the Official Report for information.
I am satisfied that adequate legislation is in place to prevent overshooting of migratory species in Ireland.
Hunting Season for Wild Birds and Wild Mammals
The following Open Seasons apply for 1990/1991.
|
Species |
Open Seasons |
|
Red Grouse |
1 September, 1990 to 30 September, 1990. |
|
Mallard, Teal, Gadwall, Wigeon, Pintail, Shoveler, Scaup, Tufted Duck, Pochard, Goldeneye, Golden Plover, Snipe, Jack Snipe |
1 September, 1990 to 31 January, 1991. |
|
Grey and Red-Legged Partridge |
1 November, 1990 to 15 November, 1990. |
|
Cock Pheasant, Woodcock |
1 November, 1990 to 31 January, 1991. |
|
Woodpigeon |
1 June, 1990 to 31 January, 1991. |
|
Deer — Red (excluding County Kerry) |
|
|
Fallow |
|
|
Sika:— |
|
|
Males |
1 September, 1990 to 28 February, 1991. |
|
Females |
1 November, 1990 to 31 January, 1991. |
|
Hares (excluding the following townlands in County Wexford: North East Slob, North West Slob, Big Island, Beggerin island and the Raven) |
26 September, 1990 to 28 February, 1991. |
Wildlife Service, Leeson Lane, Dublin 2.