Huting Ban Northern Ireland

[Fat-Ferret 857]

On Tuesday 16th November the Green Party's only MLA in Northern Ireland, Brian Wilson, introduced a Hunting Bill into the Assembly. Effectively, this Bill, should it pass, would cease all hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland. This includes beagle packs, foxhounds, harrier packs and individuals hunting with terriers.

 

An offense will be committed by anyone who hunts a wild mammal with a dog, any person who allows this activity on their land, or allows their dog be to used for this activity. It should not need pointed out how damaging this Bill would be to the rural way of life in Northern Ireland. The basic freedom enjoyed by countryside enthusiasts would be halted with a sudden and definitive blow.

 

In addition to the removal of this freedom, this Bill would substantially add to the level of unemployment already experienced in Northern Ireland. In this current economic climate any proposal that destroys thousands of livelihoods should be shown the disdain that it so obviously deserves. Research shows a large number of industries would be either directly or indirectly affected by the Hunting Bill; saddleries, mechanics, horse trainers and exporters to name but a few. Last week an extra 400 people in Northern Ireland signed on to Jobseekers Allowance; how can Brian Wilson possibly justify adding to that number simply because he does not agree with or understand effective wildlife management.

 

Extensive veterinary research has shown the most humane method of culling foxes is with a pack of hounds. The kill is instantaneous and leaves no chance of a wounded animal. Any country person will speak of their distress in seeing a wounded or sick animal suffering unnecessary pain, therefore surely the method which provides instant relief is the best.

 

Hunting with dogs has been described as barbaric, a word which in definition means primitive and uncivilised. The animal kingdom is primitive and uncivilised, and has been for thousands of centuries. What conceit needs to be possessed to believe that the human race can improve an order that has survived for millions of years? The act of hunting and being hunted is a daily aspect of animal life. Lyall Plant, Chief Executive of Countryside Alliance Ireland commented, "Mr Wilson has stated that 'hunting is not morally acceptable in a civilised society'. This statement clearly demonstrates his ignorance of the true role of hunting in wildlife management and animal welfare. Hunting with dogs can be regarded as 'natural' for both hound and quarry and, crucially does not involve the possibility of wounding. To deprive wildlife of the natural and most humane method of control must therefore itself be morally indefensible."

 

Luckily for Stormont, it has the benefit of foresight. They can study the effects of both the legislation and the enforcement of the Hunting Act in England and Wales. From evidence gathered, this Act has obviously been unsuccessful. Both the conservation of and the welfare of wild mammals has suffered since the Act came into force. Many farmers have had to take wildlife management into their own hands with the result being a lack of skilled and humane culling. Lyall Plant, Chief Executive of Countryside Alliance Ireland further commented, "Mr Wilson has moved the focus from the act of hunting to a blatant example of political prejudice which does nothing for the welfare or conservation of the species it claims to 'protect'".

 

Unfortunately, in recent months the people of Northern Ireland have seen an increase in the level of policing needed. This is already stretching PSNI resources, both in staffing and finance, without the added onus of trying to police hundreds of hunting people throughout the province. In these uncertain times the attentions of our government should be focused on peace and the economy, and not on prejudice.

 

Since July, when we first heard the rumour surrounding the introduction of this Bill, the team at Countryside Alliance Ireland has done everything in their power to enlighten MLAs as to the truth regarding hunting. We can only ask that they make an informed decision and not one based on prejudice. In addition, we have spent four months imploring our members not to be complacent, but to fight for their country sports and the freedom to participate in them. We are now running out of time. Therefore, if you want to continue to have a choice, act now and don't let this stand alone politician dictate to us.

 

For more information or advice on how to defeat this Bill please contact Countryside Alliance Ireland at www.caireland.org or telephone 028 9263 9911.

[bradaz2009 9]

like you said you stand a better chance as they can see what has happened over here and therefore can see it is so much resources needed for the "welfare" of animals when they dont know nothing about the way its done but it does say all mammals so maybe just that bit more easier to police hope all goes well anyway

[Blue one 89]

should it pass, would cease all hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland.

 

Does this mean all running dogs as well?

For rabbits?

[hullhunter 219]

welcome to the uk.

[Fat-Ferret 857]

should it pass, would cease all hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland.

 

Does this mean all running dogs as well?

For rabbits?

 

Im not sure, but I assume it would be similiar to your own ban

[tango 221]

should it pass, would cease all hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland.

 

Does this mean all running dogs as well?

For rabbits?

 

Im not sure, but I assume it would be similiar to your own ban

its just a carbon copy of the england/wales law i read through it there on the assembly site :censored:

[AL BUNDY 45]

well both sides of the divide know how to riot, especialy in that fuckers area .as you will have seen from here debate doesnt work.