17 May 2007

Deer, chamois, tahr and pigs get $200 000

United Future Leader Peter Dunne is delighted that as a result of the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the Government and United Future $200 000 has been allocated in the 2007 budget for a consultation panel to look into the future management of deer, chamois, tahr and pigs in New Zealand.

“United Future has worked tirelessly to have the status of these animals reviewed,” said Mr Dunne.

“Deer, chamois, tahr and pigs lie in an uncomfortable statutory and policy position; while in many areas they do have an impact on native plant species, they also provide tremendous enjoyment and a valuable resource for thousands of New Zealanders.”

“It must be considered that these animals provide food for the table for many New Zealand communities and are also an important source of income for many people.”

Today’s budget allocation means a consultation panel of leading environmental, scientific and recreational experts will draw up a public consultation document that will focus on issues surrounding the environmental and recreational significance of the four species.

“I encourage everyone who has an interest in this process to put together a submission and make a contribution.”

“I look forward to the formation of the panel and wish it every success in coming up with a workable management plan for the future,” concluded Mr Dunne.

ENDS

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