FACE Ireland.

J.R.

FACE Ireland Facebook post

Last January FACE Ireland met with officials from the NPWS including Minister Noonan. One of the key items for discussion was engagement with stakeholders. Minister Noonan wholeheartedly agreed that this was vital in any future plans or changes within his department. At that meeting we agreed to meet on a quarterly basis. Our next meeting went ahead as scheduled in April.

There were some serious issues discussed concerning our sport and commitments given as to how they were being progressed. Our next meeting was scheduled for July. Apologies were offered from the Minister’s office that due to a very busy schedule that the meeting was cancelled . Since then and despite several requests to have the meeting rescheduled no date has been given. More worrying our letters have not even being acknowledged. This is the same Minister that just a short few months ago committed to serious engagement.

For the benefit of information to our members listed below

are some of the issues we need clarification on.

(1) Lead Shot over Wetlands.

(2) Open Season Statement from the Minister at the beginning of September.

(3) Wildlife Crime Unit progress.

(4) Review of the NPWS update.

(5) Discussion on the protection and preservation of traditional & cultural rural sports.

(6) Setting up a proper Wildlife Advisory Council to encompass all stakeholders and not just the ones with loaded agendas.

We urge all members to ask their local TD’s, Councillors, Senators or public representatives why the Minister has walked away from meeting with FACE Ireland. We do represent 14 affiliated associations, all representing rural Ireland and their respective sports. The very sports that his Department are responsible for. We would also like to know has he given up meeting with all other NGO’s. All help in bringing a successful conclusion to this stalemate would be appreciated. Maybe time for a show of unity and strength!!