14 July 2004

Doc Prosecutions Welcomed

New Zealand First conservation spokesperson Edwin Perry has welcomed the news that the Department of Conservation in Taranaki is to take action against three dog owners who took their pets into the Egmont National Park.

“All three owners have admitted that they were aware dogs were prohibited in national parks,” said Mr Perry.

“There is no point spending millions of dollars of taxpayers’ money to protect wildlife if we turn a blind eye to people who break the law by introducing dogs into conservation areas.

“As well as the dire consequences for wildlife caused by irresponsible dog owners there is the question of how domestic pets fare if they are lost in the bush and forced to fend for themselves.

“Bad outcomes all round can be avoided if the law is well publicised and enforced,” said Mr Perry.

ENDS

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