This is just to enable open seasons . . .?
SECTION 25.
Question proposed: " That section 25 stand part of the Bill."
It provides open seasons for deer and hare.
The Minister fixes certain dates for that. Is regard had to the fact that there are certain climatic changes here which may affect the mating patterns which have obtained in the past? Is that provided for?
Section 27 would take care of that.
A freeze-up or something of that nature. Is that what the Deputy has in mind?
With warmer climes we have at present, the lifestyle of certain bird and animal life is changing. I wonder if the dates fixed for open seasons have regard to that.
First of all, when we are making an open season order each year my technical advisers take all that sort of thing into consideration.
Then they always come up with the same dates.
Oh no, they do not.
One of the Schedules sets out those that are excluded—mammals that are really predators.
We have to go to the Schedule. We are dealing here with game animals and the only two——
I am anticipating section 25, that certain wild animals——
Game mammals, mainly deer and hare with which we were concerned a short while ago. Deputies will appreciate that for the first time deer are being protected under legislation. Up to now they had no protection good, bad or indifferent.
Long overdue.
It is long overdue and I think it is a move in the right direction.
Get after the chaps with the——
Telescopic lenses.
It is more than that.
Question put and agreed to.