Thanks as hunting season draws to a close

As hunting nears the end of another season, we must give thanks to the many personnel involved who ensure we can actively participate in our country sports activities.

We are grateful to the farmers and landowners who allow us access on to their land and to the gamekeepers, huntsmen and the many volunteers who work tirelessly on our behalf.

We are indebted to the farmers and landowners in particular and in 2012 Countryside Alliance Ireland (CAI), the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) and the Northern Ireland Masters of Hounds Association (NIMHA) signed a ’Memorandum of Understanding and Co-operation’ (MOU) to inform and advise on best practice and protocol for those engaged in hunting with hounds on agricultural land, and to encourage compliance.

Co-operation is crucial between farmers and those organising hunts on agricultural land and ongoing communication is key. Good relationships protect the interests of all concerned and CAI fully encourage and promote good relations between all parties.

Lyall Plant, Chief Executive Countryside Alliance Ireland, said: “Countryside Alliance Ireland continues to fully support the Memorandum of Understanding and Co-operation for the good of country sports in Northern Ireland and for the rural way of life.

“I believe that such co-operation is essential in light of the many threats currently facing Northern Ireland’s countryside, which must be addressed constructively and collaboratively by all like-minded people and organisations.”

NI Assembly

Elections

By the time this is published the elections will be over. Will a government be formed or will we remain in limbo? Who knows?

One thing for certain is that Countryside Alliance Ireland will do everything in our power to safeguard the future of country sports.

We are certain that an attempt to ban hunting with hounds is imminent but we will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of our members and supporters in this regard. As always, protecting our members’ interests will remain at the heart of everything we do.

New Addition

to the CAI Team

Countryside Alliance Ireland is delighted to announce the appointment of Gary McCartney as Development Officer. 

Gary will be joining the team as of 6 March 2017 and he will provide membership, administrative and operational support to the organisation. 

We are sure you will join with us in wishing Gary every success in his new post.

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