Game service warns of stricter hunting fines

AHEAD of the first hunting foray for native pray, the Game Service warned hunters to take all necessary measures and observe the law, especially since it was now stricter.

According to the service, usual offences during outings like hunting without a permit or hunting in banned areas, were punishable with spot fines starting from €2,000. Poaching during the night is punishable with a fine of €25,000.

The new legislation was introduced in July last year and issued fines have exceeded €750,000.

The service said around 60 per cent have been paid within the deadline set by the law while 15 per cent were outstanding.

Twenty-five per cent have not been paid and have either been to court or will go.

“Out of the cases adjudicated, in most instances the courts have imposed the same or stiffer penalties from the original fine,” the Game Service said.

Irrespective, hunters must display the necessary sensitivity and respect, avoid hunting in large groups with many dogs so as to give the pray a chance to escape, the service said. It also urged them to report poaching and those who violated game reserve areas, and to stick to the given quota.

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