New Special Investigations Unit will enhance forestry and wildlife protection

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Rick Woodford today announced the establishment of a Special Investigations Unit for the department, which the minister said will enhance the department�s efforts in protecting our valuable wildlife and forest resources.

The new unit has been created in the legislation and compliance division in Corner Brook which is responsible for the management of forestry and wildlife enforcement in the province.

A chief of special investigations leads the unit and coordinates the work of the conservation officers assigned to special investigations. This involves planning, developing, coordinating and directing all activities of the Special Investigations Unit.

"This position will play an integral role in the development of policy recommendations for special investigations programs and provide expertise for the development of new laws, regulations, policies, procedures and standards," said Minister Woodford.

The Special Investigations Unit conducts extensive overt and covert investigations into serious offences and organized criminal activity that impact on the forestry and wildlife sector.

"The protection of our forest and wildlife resources remains a priority for government. The creation of this new unit will enhance our ability to deal with those who willfully abuse our natural resources," added Mr. Woodford. "I am confident that the chief of special investigations will be an asset to the special investigations unit and complement the dedicated effort already being demonstrated by our existing complement of effective conservation officers throughout the province."

The minister pointed out that the Report of the Committee on the Use of Outdoor Resources recommended the strengthening of undercover operations in the province and added that a new Special Investigations Unit for the department will indeed strengthen its enforcement efforts.

The new unit also has provincial responsibilities for co-ordinating, implementing and developing memoranda of understandings for joint operations with other enforcement agencies, such as the RCMP, RNC, Canadian Wildlife Service, Fisheries and Oceans, Federal Parks and Natural Resource Agencies from other provinces.

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2003 03 11                                        1:35 p.m.