26.03.2017
The “alarming distrust” between groups that tackle Scotland’s worst wildlife crimes must come to an end, a Committee has warned today.
The Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee has written to the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Roseanna Cunningham today after scrutinising the Scottish Government’s Wildlife Crime in Scotland 2015 Annual Report.
The Committee is now calling for greater cooperation and improved reporting between wildlife groups, stakeholders and Police Scotland to help to stop the cruel treatment of wild animals.
Convener of the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee Graeme Dey MSP said:
"Wildlife crime, in all its guises and wherever it takes place, is unacceptable and there should be a zero tolerance approach towards such activities and those who undertake them.
"Tackling this issue effectively requires genuine, collaborative working and the Committee was disappointed to see the clear distrust and tension which exists between some of those whose participation is so essential.
"The Committee is calling for greater partnership working, between all organisations - including Police Scotland, the RSPB and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association - operating within the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime.”
Background
The letter follows a number of evidence sessions with those working to address wildlife crime in Scotland. More details of the Committee’s work on wildlife crime can be found here.