September 10, 1996
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister Modifies Hunting Requirements

Due to the high participation rate in the newly implemented Firearm Safety/Hunter Education program, the minister responsible for wildlife, Beaton Tulk, has announced some modifications to the program requirements.

"It has come to my attention that several areas of the island portion of the province are experiencing such a high level of participation that in some cases, through no fault of their own, some persons may not be able to avail of the course prior to the start of the hunting season." The minister said that the intent of the course is not to restrict anyone from participating in hunting activities. "Since this is a new initiative, I have advised my staff that for this hunting season only, persons who are legitimately registered for the course may proceed to hunt this fall if they have the appropriate hunting license. Possession of a receipt from the college proving registration will act as the hunter's interim Outdoors Identification Card until such a time as he/she completes the course and is issued a permanent Outdoor Identification Card from the Wildlife Division."

The Firearm Safety/Hunter Education program was originally announced last April as the requirement for all new hunters and hunters without previous training who wished to hunt big or small game. Since this time, participation has been excellent with over 2,200 persons attending the course. Persons who have completed the course, along with those who have previously completed the Hunter Capability Test, have been issued Outdoor Identification Cards. On the island this fall, these cards are required to be in possession of the hunter when hunting game with a firearm.

The minister also wished to remind new hunters interested in entering the 1997 big game draw that they must have the course completed prior to December 31, 1996 in order to qualify.

Contact: John Blake or Chris Baldwin, (709) 729-3509.