Tony Gregory
Ceist:1570 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his plans to change in any way the long-standing policy of no hunting on State lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16866/02]
Written Answers. - Wildlife Protection.
Neither I, nor my predecessor in this function, the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, has indicated any proposal for a change of policy in this matter.
At the request of the National Association of Regional Game Council (NARGC), my predecessor agreed, without prejudice to the above position; to participation by Dúchas scientists with nominees of NARGC to examine the issue of hunting on State lands from a scientific perspective only. I understand that this exercise is now nearing conclusion, following which I will respond to any new policy questions which may arise from it.