New hunters wishing to enter the 2007 big game licence draw must complete a Firearm Safety Hunter Education course before November 30, 2006. The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation, reminds new hunters that the course is available at College of the North Atlantic (CNA) campuses throughout the province.

"This course is an excellent way for new hunters to learn proper safety skills and for experienced hunters to upgrade their skills," said Minister Jackman. "The deadline is necessary as my department prepares to mail out big game licence applications for the 2007 draw for moose and caribou on the island, and for moose-only in Labrador."

New hunters in the province must complete the Firearm Safety Hunter Education course in order to hunt any game with a firearm. Existing qualified hunters who wish to obtain a federal firearms licence should note that Part A (Canada Firearm Safety Course) of the Firearm Safety Hunter Education program is required by the federal government when applying for a Possession and Acquisition Licence.

For information about course schedules contact the CNA toll-free number at 1-888-982-2268 or call one of the 17 local campuses across the province to speak with a college business development officer.

For more information about the Firearm Safety Hunter Education Program or information on hunting and trapping in our province, please contact John Blake or Chris Baldwin, Wildlife Division, 709-637-2006.

Media contact:
Diane Hart
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 685-4401
dianehart@gov.nl.ca