Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 December 2013
122. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on Garda Operation Bambi; the number of persons arrested and charged as part of this operation to date and broken down on an annual basis; the number of successful convictions obtained as a result of the operation; and if the operation is still active. [52130/13]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities that Operation Bambi commenced in September 2013 following consultation between An Garda Síochána and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The operation was set up to target individuals who are suspected of being actively involved in the commission of wildlife crime, particularly the illegal hunting of wild deer and poaching.
I am further informed that three persons were arrested in November as part of the operation and that one person was charged with firearms offences. Additional charges under the Wildlife Act 1976, as amended, are being considered. The investigation into any further offences is ongoing.
