Vol. 490 No. 6
82 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the number of game shooting licences issued to international visitors for each of the past two years; the monitoring conditions that apply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10880/98]
The number of licences issued under section 29 of the Wildlife Act, 1976 to out of State hunters was 3,000 in 1996 and 3,096 in 1997. These licences are monitored by the following procedures, which are currently in place.
Tourist shoot promoters have to submit details of their shooting rights to Dúchas the heritage service of my Department. These are assessed for gun day carrying capacity to ensure that lands are not overshot and licences are issued by reference to this assessment.
Game bag returns have to be submitted by each promoter at the end of the season. In addition Dúchas rangers spot-check shooting parties and inspect game bags.
Hunters must hold a valid firearms certificate and hunting licences and have landowner's permission. Notices are issued with licences to all out of State shooters advising them of the general Irish hunting situation and rules.
Complainants are advised to report immediately any alleged breaches of the Wildlife Act, 1976 to the gardaí or an authorised person under the Wildlife Act. Persons convicted of offences face firearms seizure and fines of up to £500 under the Act.
The licensing procedures for out of State residents under the Wildlife Act, 1976 and the Firearms Acts are the subject of judicial review proceedings which are currently before the High Court.
