19 November 2013

UnitedFuture’s Game Animal Council Bill Set to Pass Remaining Stages

UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne says the Game Animal Council Bill is set to pass through its remaining stages in Parliament today.

The Bill, which establishes a statutory body to give greater representation to the interests of recreational hunters, is a key component of UnitedFuture’s confidence and supply agreement with National.

“I introduced this Bill when Associate Minister of Conservation, and am absolutely delighted that it is now set to pass.

“This is a red letter day for the recreational hunting sector in New Zealand, and shows what a small party, working as a confidence and supply partner, can achieve on behalf of a key outdoor recreation sector group.

“I want to acknowledge all those who have played a part in getting to this stage, from the original consultation group chaired by Hon Margaret Austin during the time of the previous government; to Gary Ottmann who chaired the Establishment Group; organisations like the Deerstalkers Association and the Game and Forest Foundation; the officials who worked on the legislation, and the thousands of New Zealanders who made submissions at various stages urging the establishment of the Game Animal Council.

“Today is very much a day for them, and I thank them for all their efforts,” Mr Dunne says.

Mr Dunne says he will be working alongside the Minister of Conservation to ensure that the Council is established as soon as possible after the legislation has been passed.

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