The proposal is to introduce a special protection order under the Game Preservation Act (NI) 1928, for the period 1 September 2007 to 31 March 2008.
Arlene Foster said: “I am satisfied that indicators about the numbers of Irish Hare in Northern Ireland suggest that there is a need for continued protection until there is greater assurance about the stability and sustainability of the population. Therefore I have asked that proposals for a new Special Protection Order be taken forward."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. The results of the 2006 Irish Hare survey can be found at the following: http://www.ehsni.gov.uk/irishharesurvey2006.pdf
2. Section 7C(1) of the Game Preservation Act (NI) 1928 provides that where the Minister is satisfied that it is necessary or expedient to provide special protection for any kind of game, the Minister may by order prohibit the killing or taking, or the sale or purchase, of any game prescribed by the order, during such period not exceeding one year as shall be prescribed by the order.
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