Media statement
Embargoed until 1pm
Tuesday, 15 April 2008

Deer, chamois, tahr and pigs report public

The report of the Deer, Chamois, Tahr and Pigs Consultation Panel, set up jointly by UnitedFuture and the Labour-led Government under the two parties’ confidence and supply agreement, has been released and is now available to the public.

“I thank the members of the Panel for the hard work and long hours they put in to produce this report,” said UnitedFuture Leader Peter Dunne.

“UnitedFuture has worked for many years to have the status and treatment of these animals reviewed.

“I want to make sure we get the best possible process in place to manage the recreational, environmental and economic effects of these animals.

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

“The Panel has had to work through the many differing opinions and attitudes that surround these animals. The 4000 public submissions received during the consultation process is testament to the importance of deer, chamois, tahr and pigs to New Zealanders.

“I am very grateful for the Panel’s report and I look forward to working alongside the Government to implement its recommendations,” concluded Mr Dunne.

ENDS

© Scoop Media