asked the Minister for Justice whether he is prepared to introduce proposals for legislation to amend the Wild Birds Protection Act, 1930, so as to exclude goldfinch, linnet and bullfinch from the protective provisions of the Act.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wild Bird and Game Protection.
asked the Minister for Justice whether he is prepared to introduce proposals for legislation to amend Section 2 of the Game Preservation Act, 1930, by deleting the word "plover" as the inclusion of this bird in the Act has caused great hardship to many men who, prior to the passing of the Act, earned a livelihood by netting plover.
I propose to take question 38 and question 39 together.
I do not, at present, contemplate the introduction of legislation to amend the Wild Birds Protection Act, 1930, or the Game Preservation Act, 1930.
Is the Minister aware that many of the allegations of cruelty that were made during the passage of the Act have been proved to be without foundation? Is he also aware that many persons who trapped or caught these birds did so for breeding purposes and on occasions for the purpose of adding to an already scanty means of livelihood and is he aware of the hardship inflicted on these persons?
Is the Minister aware that a considerable number of people found a livelihood in netting these birds and in netting plover and, in view of the fact that when the Minister's Party was in opposition they opposed the Bill will he see if there has been any fundamental change in the policy of his Party since?
I am open to conviction in regard to both these matters. At present I feel that the weight of opinion is in favour of leaving the law as it is.
Might I ask the Minister whether this matter has been considered from the point of view of the policy of his Party as indicated by the speeches and the votes in the Dáil, or from the Minister's personal standpoint?
The view I have expressed is purely my personal view. I am willing to give the matters referred to in the questions further consideration and to give close attention to any statement of reasons put before me by Deputy Norton.
Is the Minister prepared to receive a deputation from Cork?