Document release: 20 August, 2007 5:34 PM
Countryside Ireland: on the ban in Scotland.
Following yesterday's news from Scotland, where legislation to outlaw hunting was approved, David Wilkinson, Chairman of Countryside Ireland, espressed his sincere dismay at the situation. He regretted the bitterness of the debate, which had at it's heart been driven by issues of social difference.
Happily, the future looks much brighter here in Ireland. The Irish Hunting Association and the Department of Agriculture met some time ago, and agreed upon a set of rules and proceedures for hunting with hounds in Ireland. Since this protocol has been in place, it had been well received by the Irish public in general. David Wilkinson adds, "There is no significant movement against hunting in Ireland and our field sports are extremely well supported." The fox hunting debate in Ireland is a non-issue.
For UK reactions to yesterday's ban in Scotland, click here.