Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
670. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a possible increased danger to the public was taken when extending the deer hunting season period to include August which is still the most outdoor popular holiday season (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12673/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDeer hunting can occur in Ireland all year round, not just during the deer hunting open season. A landowner may apply for a permit under S42 of the Wildlife Acts 1976, as amended, to control deer on their land where serious damage is being caused. This hunting predominantly occurs on private land where hunters must have permission to hunt. Also deer are most active at dawn and dusk and are more likely to avoid areas of heavy footfall by visitors.
In relation to the management of deer on State lands staff of the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) involved in deer management are highly trained and avoid busy periods and areas of the National Parks where there are likely to be visitors. Management of deer within State forests is operated by Coillte who issue licences to individuals that contain conditions in relation to when and at what times licencees may hunt, including putting up warning signs in those areas.
State owned lands are busy with recreational users and visitors all year round where deer hunting has been occurring for many years.
The results of the change to the Open Seasons Order will be monitored through the measurement of impacts on the ground and the need for further changes to the open season will be considered again in light of that data.
