Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2023
366. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department recognises the contribution of gun clubs to conservation efforts in Ireland in light of his Department engaged with game hunters and gun clubs prior to making the decision on the open season Order last year. [29231/23]
View answer367. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his Departments plans to meet with gun clubs ahead of the start of open season 2023. [29232/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 366 and 367 together.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department works in tandem with members of gun clubs in many conservation projects across Ireland, including through predator control activities, and I recognise the contribution that such gun clubs make to our national conservation efforts.
The National Association of Regional Game Councils (NARGC) and other hunting, shooting and game management associations attended the open stakeholder meeting that was held by the NPWS to discuss the review of the Open Seasons Order on 21 April 2023. Many representatives from the sector also engaged with the survey that issued in relation to same, giving valuable insight and feedback, which will all be taken into account in the ongoing review of the Order. Stakeholders will be invited to any further public meetings that may be held in relation to the OSO, where their input will be welcomed.
