September 5, 1997
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Kevin Aylward, Minister responsible for Wildlife, is pleased to announce key recommendations that have been made on three issues that have been of concern to wildlife organizations and users:

1. bag limits for rabbits;
2. the use of stainless steel wire for harvesting small game; and,
3. the need for provincial endangered species legislation.

"I have recently received recommendations from the newly formed Inland Fish and Wildlife Advisory Council on these issues," said Mr. Aylward, "and I feel that the deliberations of this 19-member group have resulted in recommendations which will be beneficial to both the wildlife and the wildlife users alike."

Commencing in the 1997 hunting season, there will be a season bag limit of 40 rabbits per hunter. This will hopefully result in a more equitable share of the annual harvest of rabbits among a larger number of hunters.

While there has been considerable debate in recent years regarding the use of stainless steel wire to harvest small game, the minister was pleased to accept the recommendation of the Council that further research and options be pursued as an alternative to the use of stainless steel and other wire for snaring rabbits to avoid the by-catch of other species. In the interim, the use of stainless steel wire will continue for this season. This issue will receive additional consideration in future; more research will be conducted on the merits of using this material.

In response to the Council's concern for endangered species, Mr. Aylward stated that the department is developing a proposal to prepare provincial legislation for protection of endangered species for consideration by government. Public consultations will be an important element of this process, and it is hoped that these consultations will be held in the near future.

"I appreciate the valuable advice and assistance of the Council," stated the minister, "and I am convinced that this forum for attaining public input in the decision making process is quite effective."

Tom Humphrey, chair of the Inland Fish and Wildlife Advisory Council, is encouraged by the contributions made by the members of the newly formed Council and the interest by the general public in bringing forward issues for consideration by the Council.

"I was very pleased with the progress Council was able to make on these particular issues," said Mr. Humphrey."And the prompt consideration of these recommendations by the Department and the new minister is promising for future consultations. There are still a large number of issues to be reviewed," Mr. Humphrey added, "including the future direction of some of our inland fish and wildlife management programs, and the important role the general public should play in ensuring their future. However, this level of cooperation will certainly help us take on this challenging task."

The minister also takes this opportunity to wish all hunters a safe and enjoyable experience in the upcoming hunting season.

Contact:

Anna Buffinga , Communications (709) 729-3750

Tom Humphrey, Chair, Inland Fish & Wildlife Advisory Council, (709) 639-8497