Media Statement
Friday 25 September 2008

Dunne delighted with Game Council Discussion Paper

UnitedFuture Leader Peter Dunne is delighted with the release today of a discussion paper on the establishment of a New Zealand Big Game Hunting Council.

“UnitedFuture has worked extremely hard under the Confidence and Supply Agreement with the National-led Government to have the interests of hunters better recognised, the Big Game Hunting Council is a central plank to that,” said Mr Dunne.

“I urge hunters and all interested parties to contribute to the Big Game Hunting Council through their participation in the consultation process.”

“This is your chance to have a say in the formation of an organisation that I trust will have a positive impact on your future hunting experiences and the practical management of large game animals in New Zealand.”

“I am especially pleased for the long-neglected hunting community that we have managed to achieve the foundation of a truly effective and far-reaching advocacy organisation.”

“The Council will be a permanent statutory body tasked with representing the myriad of interests within the hunting community, managing the resource potential and environmental impact of deer, chamois, tahr and wild pigs, as well as providing expert advice to the Minister of Conservation.”

“I not only want to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of the Establishment Committee in putting together the discussion document, but also the constructive involvement of the Associate Minister of Conservation, Kate Wilkinson, in this process.”

“I have long held the belief that deer, chamois, tahr and wild pigs are valued introduced species that deserve responsible management in order to maximise their recreational and commercial benefits without neglecting the environmental challenges that come along with them. The Big Game Hunting Council will have a mandate to do that,” said Mr Dunne.

ENDS

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