30 May, 2012
Premier’s broken promise trades national parks and public safety for Shooters’ votes
The state’s peak environment group has today condemned the Premier’s backflip on shooting in national parks.
“The Premier has repeatedly assured the NSW public that our national parks would not be opened up to hunting. Today he has broken that promise.” said Pepe Clarke, NCC Chief Executive Officer.
“This is a serious breach of faith and a complete departure from the reason our national parks were established – for the conservation and enjoyment of nature.
“Opening our national parks to recreational hunters is a very real threat to public safety. Natural areas previously reserved for peaceful recreational uses will become a battleground of competing interests.
“It’s only a matter of time before a member of the public is seriously injured by the introduction of blood sports into our national parks.”
“Shooting of feral animals by recreational hunters is not a proven method of feral animal control.
“Effective feral animal control should be conducted by licenced professionals under the supervision of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, using a scientific approach and monitored outcomes.
“Eradication of feral animals is a serious policy issue that must be addressed based on the best available science, not backroom political deals,” said Mr Clarke
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Forests and wildlife
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