The derogation to continue shooting pigeons attacking farm crops has been reapproved.

Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan had come under pressure from the IFA, Irish Country Sports Association and National Association of Regional Games Council (NARGC) to renew the derogation in light of potential crop damage.

However, the renewal had been uncertain, as Minister Noonan had repeatedly expressed his distaste for the hunting of animals.

The news will be welcomed by farmers and organisations alike.

Farmers will now have permission to protect crops from bird infestation.