Ban on use of lead shot over wetlands announced

Regulations to prohibit the use of lead shot by anyone shooting over wetlands in Northern Ireland, comes into effect on 1 September.

This will affect anyone who uses a shot gun near wetlands, whether it is for wildfowling, clay pigeon shooting or for any other purpose.

It has long been established that many waterfowl die from lead poisoning after ingesting lead shot which has fallen onto wetland.

A guidance note about the new restrictions and how it affects shooters has been produced jointly by the Department of the Environment, Countryside Alliance (Ireland) and the British Association for Shooting and Conservation. It is readily available from any of these organisations.

Welcoming the new restrictions Environment Minister Edwin Poots said: “This is an important step towards meeting Northern Ireland’s international commitments to conserve important wildfowl populations and our wetlands. A sustainable harvest of waterfowl is perfectly acceptable. However, the loss of wild ducks and geese due to lead poisoning is not – particularly when some species are under increasing pressure from other factors.

"I would like to thank the shooting associations for the positive cooperation they have given my Department in formulating these restrictions. I have every confidence that the changes will go along way to sustaining our future wildfowl populations and with that in mind I appeal for all shooters to comply."

Notes to editors:

1. The Environmental Protection (Restriction on Use of Lead Shot) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009 were made on 20 April and come into operation on 1 September to coincide with the new shooting season for wildfowl.

2. The Regulations will fulfil Northern Ireland’s international obligations under the African-Eurasian Waterbird Agreement

3. All media enquiries should be directed to the DOE Press Office 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.