SNP snaring policy based on "lack of research and a disregard for public opinion"

Tuesday, 12 January 2010 17:08

Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham MSP gave evidence to the Public Petitions Committee this afternoon about Scottish Government policy on snaring. She was called by the Committee as part of its consideration of the 10,000 strong petition against snaring that was lodged almost two years ago.

 

MSPs asked the Minister why the Scottish Government had chosen to ignore public opinion on the issue of snaring, and the overwhelming support for a ban on these traps in Scotland.

The Minister maintained that snaring was essential for “countryside management” and that the Government was constantly monitoring snaring and seeking improvements. However she acknowledged that the Scottish Government had not carried out research into the number of non-target animals and that records of animals snared are not currently required.

The Minister told the Committee that the long-awaited regulations which are supposed to improve snaring practice would be introduced to the Scottish Parliament next week on 20 January – almost two years after they were announced by the previous Minister, Michael Russell MSP.

Advocates for Animals' Political Director, Libby Anderson said:

"what this evidence session clearly showed was that the Scottish Government's decision not to ban snaring was based on a lack of research and a disregard for public opinion. The petition continues and we hope that will help them to change their minds"