Hunters given access to future National Parks - 6 March 2006

Greens MLC Ian Cohen says he is deeply concerned that hunters have been given access to forests that should be National Park.

“Shooting and hunting is going to be allowed in a massive area of NSW forests – not just plantations but critical high conservation value native forests that should be in National Parks,” Mr Cohen said.

“The National Parks Association has calculated that 400 000 hectares of forests all over NSW will now be available for hunting.

“Some of these areas are valuable conservation areas that are part of proposals for National Parks.

“The shooters will also be permitted to bring in their hunting dogs. Unfortunately my amendment to prevent this was voted down in the Legislative Council last year.

“Allowing hunters to trample our future conservation estate is reckless short term politics of the worse kind.

“Allowing forests to be locked up for hunters, shooters and their dogs exclusive use is wrong. These forests are for all of NSW residents to enjoy,” Mr Cohen said.

Further Information: Ben Oquist 02 9230 3305 or 0419 704 095