This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Proposals to improve deer welfare
05/01/2006
The Deputy Environment Minister today agreed proposals by the Deer Commission to develop improved systems for controlling wild deer.
Responding to proposals to remove the historic system of open and closed seasons - where deer can be culled during set periods - Rhona Brankin called on the Commission to develop alternative systems for year-round management and welfare.
The new systems, which the Commission will consult upon, are likely to include improved controls on the fitness and competence of stalkers, and improved animal welfare protection.
Rhona Brankin said:
"The introduction of new systems does not mean an automatic end to the traditional system of open and closed seasons.
"The Deer Commission for Scotland will be working closely with the sector to devise and demonstrate better ways to manage deer effectively to suit a wide range of 21st century rural land uses.
"A further consultation on the proposals devised by the Commission will be undertaken before any formal legislative changes are made."
The Deer Commission for Scotland is an Executive Non Departmental Public Body of the Scottish Executive. The Commission undertook a public consultation in 2004 on seasons and general aspects of deer management.
The Commission's recommendations and results of the consultation are available on http://www.dcs.gov.uk/i_news.htm.
Information on deer seasons in Scotland and other deer facts are available at http://www.dcs.gov.uk/i_faq.htm