I know for a fact that the Irish hare population where I live in Co.Down is thriving. Ireland is a country with a rich rural heritage which is now sadly being threatened by an ignorant bigot. I thought we all now wanted bigots out of Northern Irish politics?
Those used to managing the Irish hare should be allowed to continue to do so, without interference from politicians, especially ones who are unable to make sensible decisions based on evidence.
When I was sent to Northern Ireland as a soldier it was to protect the Roman Catholic minority. Why should the hunting minority not be protected from 'Thought Fascists'who are about as bigotted as some of those people I found in that province.
Another politician thinking she knows better than the rural and hunting communities who have more passion for conservation than any politician is ever likely to have or even understand !
Ministers must govern fairly and consistently: arbitrary extensions in the absence supporting data are an abuse of power. The encroachment of personal prejudice is unprofessional.
Surely there are more pressing environmental issues on which Ms Smith could spend her time and taxpayers money? It's time politicians started doing the jobs they've been elected to do and stop using their positions to foist their ill-informed opinions onto everyone else.
This action underlines the basic lack of understanding for countryside issues within our current government. Without field sports enthusiasts who will protect the habitat of the hare?
This kind of action reminds one of Germany in the 1930s. Intolerance and browbeating of the minority by the ignorant and prejudiced are once again the order of the day.
