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The following statement was issued by Ernest McLean, Minister of Government Services and Lands. It was also read in the House of Assembly: The Department of Government Services and Lands is extremely concerned about continuing breaches of ATV regulations. While reports from the general public and government officials indicate that our current regulations have been successful in reducing damage to our province's wetlands and barrens, there are areas where certain individuals seem to have complete disregard for any of the regulations. During a recent helicopter patrol, eight tickets were handed out, seven for violation of the ATV regulations and one for violation of the wildlife regulations. The patrol encompassed an area from the Witless Bay Line, north to Placentia, and from St. Bride's to North Harbour in a west-east direction. A ninth violation is under investigation. During a second patrol of this area two days later, two more tickets for ATV violations were issued. Our wetlands must be protected. They are inhabited by many aquatic, animal, bird and unique plant species; they reduce flood levels in rivers; and they provide us with a wide range of environmental, tourist and social benefits. The Department of Government Services and Lands will not tolerate abuse of the wetlands of this province. We want to send a clear message to all violators that they will be prosecuted. I would also like to thank the many dedicated people in our province who are committed to protecting our wetlands and thank the majority of ATV users who respect our regulations.
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