May 29, 1996
(Forest Resources And Agrifoods)

Annual report for Regional Services and Protection Section of Wildlife Division released

Beaton Tulk, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, and the minister responsible for wildlife, announced today the release of the 1995 Annual Report for the Regional Services and Protection Section of the Wildlife Division. This section is involved in all aspects of wildlife management including enforcement, education, research studies and projects, public relations and training.

"Overall, 1995 was a successful year and very busy for all staff," said the minister. "Some of this can be attributed to the merging of responsibilities and enforcement resources between Wildlife and Forestry. This has enhanced the effectiveness and efficiency of both Divisions."

Enforcement for 1995 showed a slight increase in the number of charges laid since last year. Individual and combined efforts of personnel conducting uniformed patrols, joint patrols, and undercover operations resulted in laying 640 charges in court. Wildlife officers have complemented and supported various agencies in the spirit of cooperative enforcement such as RCMP, RNC, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Parks Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service, Search and Rescue teams, as well as provincial departments.

Mr. Tulk wishes to remind the people of this province of the importance of our wildlife resources and the need for their conservation. "The effectiveness of our wildlife officers depends on respect for the province's wildlife resource," said Mr. Tulk, adding, "wildlife species are one of our most valuable resources and we all share an equal responsibility in their protection."

     Contact:

     Mr. Robert Whitten,                Anna Buffinga
     (709) 729-2647                     (709) 729-3750