For a moderate spring hunting season

The autumn hunting season is fast nearing its end. On February 1 it will be a closed season. Hunters will be oiling their guns for preservation and asking the million dollar question: “Will there be a proper spring hunting season for quails and turtle doves for each and every hunter?”

The hunters are aware that expected good behaviour is only one aspect of the reward, because the hot issue is the European Union and the interpretation of the judgment delivered by the European Court of Justice. The Prime Minister made it public that spring hunting for a duration of three weeks, with a limited bag taking, will be in place, although he fell short of confirming that all hunters will be allowed to practise their sport. The federation will only accept a season for all hunters. It is either everyone or no one. Other conditions may be tuned up around the table so long as all hunters will be granted permission to exercise their right.

There is no question that illegal rampant activity is well under control, and both BirdLife and the hunters’ federation, together with the help of law-abiding hunters and the Administrative Law Enforcement unit, have contributed towards this goal. This line of action should continue and defaulters should be brought to justice. Media reports of illegal activity were very scarce if any and I hope they will not escalate, as normally happens, towards the approach of the spring season.

I urge all concerned to get closer and by all means oppose all types of illegality but accept a moderate, sustainable spring hunting/trapping season.