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07/05/2014
Environment Minister Pledges Action On Wildlife Crime
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has pledged to tackle wildlife crime in Northern Ireland. The Minister made the comment as he hosted a summit attended by almost 30 organisations.
He said: "Our wildlife plays a very important role in our ecosystem. The abuse of these species is an appalling crime which I know sickens the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland.
"We really need to bring this issue much higher up the agenda. The legal powers are already embedded. Most people will know deer poaching and badger baiting is a crime. How many people know that they may have a criminal record if they even injure a bat or steal an egg from a bird of prey?
"It is not just about injuring animals. There is much publicity about contaminated fuel. But what about contaminated meat? Have you been offered venison off the back of a lorry? The seller is committing a crime. Further you will not know how that meat has been processed. Are you prepared to gamble with the contents of your dinner?"
Any crime against wildlife can be reported to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
(IT/JP)
He said: "Our wildlife plays a very important role in our ecosystem. The abuse of these species is an appalling crime which I know sickens the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland.
"We really need to bring this issue much higher up the agenda. The legal powers are already embedded. Most people will know deer poaching and badger baiting is a crime. How many people know that they may have a criminal record if they even injure a bat or steal an egg from a bird of prey?
"It is not just about injuring animals. There is much publicity about contaminated fuel. But what about contaminated meat? Have you been offered venison off the back of a lorry? The seller is committing a crime. Further you will not know how that meat has been processed. Are you prepared to gamble with the contents of your dinner?"
Any crime against wildlife can be reported to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
(IT/JP)
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