Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 297: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he is taking following the treatment of a deer by stag hounds at a school (details supplied) in County Meath; if he will suspend the licence to a group to prevent further mistreatment of deer; if he will establish the full facts of the cruelty perpetrated against the deer and take appropriate action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3270/07]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Licences in respect of hunting activities are issued under section 26 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, as amended. In considering any application for a renewal of a licence for the following season, my Department takes account of the level of compliance with the licence's conditions that has been achieved during the term of the previous licence. Veterinary reports (prepared by the veterinary inspector engaged by my Department to inspect a licensed activity and its operations) are also taken into account, and where necessary, my Department meets representatives of the applicants to review these matters.

The licence referred to expires on 31 March. The matters referred to in the Question will be looked into and, if appropriate, taken into account in considering any application for a renewal.