reply from Fine Gael about Fine Gael threaten to reverse stag hunt ban

http://www.banbloodsports.com/

Thank you for your email.

The Fine Gael Party manifesto outlines the Party’s position on stag hunting, which is to reverse the ban. This position was taken by the Party when this ban was proposed by the Green Party, some time ago.

The Department of Environment outlined thirty five conditions underpinning the licence held by the Ward Union Hunt, many of which were specifically designed to ensure animal welfare standards were maintained

As a Party, Fine Gael is not opposed to countryside sports where adequate licensing structures are in place and which are properly supervised and monitored in terms of animal welfare. The hunt at the heart of this issue was required to apply for a licence annually since 1977 from the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The hunt’s activities were supervised by the Department of the Environment Wildlife Officers and veterinarians.

As such, the Fine Gael opposed the ban on stag hunting and has committed to the reversal of the ban.

The Party has firmly committed to overhauling animal welfare legislation which is outdated and has not been dealt with by the last Government despite protestations that animal welfare was a priority. There are many issues relating to animal welfare which the Party sees as a priority such as puppy farming and horse welfare and these issues will be tackled as a priority under a Fine Gael Government.

Yours Sincerely

The Fine Gael Campaign Team 2011