Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
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Question 430: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his policy on stag hunting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11055/12]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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The Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2010 made it an offence to hunt a deer with two or more dogs. This legislation had the purpose of banning stag hunting by riders and hounds. I will continue to keep all provisions of the Wildlife Acts under review and introduce improvements to the law, where appropriate. However, I have stated that one of my biggest challenges is to work towards greater common understanding of the issues we face in protecting our natural heritage. My Department has significant challenges before it to ensure that Ireland is in full compliance with EU Directives on nature conservation and that we ensure that the richness of Ireland's built and natural heritage contributes to national economic recovery. It is my view that the resources of my Department should be focused on those areas at this time.