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The proposed ban on lead ammunition is disproportionate and discriminatory toward farmers, IFA environment and rural affairs committee chair Paul O’Brien has said.
The IFA has said that at no point in the proposal is any consideration given to the farmer, landowner or their agent.
The European Commission wants to apply the ban in and around wetlands in member states over wildlife concerns.
O’Brien said: “Over 80% of the country could be classed as a wetland. This will include farmyards and fields where farmers or their agents will need to use a firearm to protect livestock and crops.”
Prosecution
The IFA said it pointed out to the NPWS on numerous occasions over the last two years the effects the proposed restriction would have on farmers.
O’Brien continued: “We are extremely disappointed with Minister Noonan, who had at the first opportunity has shown little or no regard for farmers concerns, the custodians of the countryside.
“Under the new regulation, simply being in possession or using lead ammunition, a farmer or their agent will be breaching the regulations and open to prosecution.”
Replacement
Steel gunshots, which are the most likely alternative to be used, are available at a comparable price. The IFA feel that no consideration has been given to the cost of replacement shotguns, which are capable of firing steel shot.
Shotguns which have the correct safety requirement or which are proofed to fire steel shot have a replacement cost of over €2,000.
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