Farmers have been warned that an individual claiming to be associated with a deer management project in Wicklow is calling to farms in the area seeking permission for recreational hunting.

The Wicklow Uplands Council, which oversees the project, has stressed that the person has no involvement with the organisation and that no landowners will be approached in this manner. Pat Mellon, who oversees the group’s work, said: “The scope of the project does not include recreational shooting and all contact with landowners is conducted formally by myself, rather than individual third parties. The actions of this individual are potentially damaging to both the reputation of the organisation and the project.”

Any landowners who may have been approached are asked to contact Mellon on 01-281 8406.