Department lifts wildfowling suspension

A suspension of the shooting of certain species of wildfowl due to the recent freezing weather conditions will end at 8.00am on 21 January 2010.

The suspension, brought into force under article 4(10) of the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985, lasted for 14 days and was reviewed after seven days.

The arrangements for the introduction of a suspension in Northern Ireland were established in January 2001 and agreed with the Council for Nature Conservation and Countryside (CNCC), the British Association for Shooting and Conservation and the Countryside Alliance.

Notes to editors:

1. Species covered by the Order are:

Curlew

Duck, Tufted

Gadwall

Goldeneye

Goose, Canada

Goose, Grey-lag

Goose, Pink footed

Mallard

Pintail

Plover, Golden

Pochard

Scaup

Shoveler

Teal

Wigeon

2. Wildfowling is the practice of shooting ducks, geese, or other waterfowl for sport or food.

3. All media enquiries should be directed to DOE Press Office on 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.