20th August 2009
LABOUR BACKS POLICING OF WILDLIFE CRIME
A Labour Parliamentary Candidate has given her backing to the efforts of North Wales Police to tackle wildlife and environmental crimes.
The RSPB and over 100 other organisations have called for a UK-wide review of how police protect rare animals and plants, due to what they see as an inconsistent approach and too few resources.
But Labour Candidate for Clwyd West, Donna Hutton, has applauded the successes of the National Wildlife Crime Unit in North Wales.
“I am delighted that our unit, led by wildlife and environment officer Sgt Rob Taylor, has a good record, investigating around 350 complaints last year and working well with voluntary conservation groups.
“I agreed with the RSPB’s head investigator, Ian West, when he said strong laws to protect our wildlife are a sign of a civilised society, but they are only worthwhile if properly enforced.
“That is why I would like to see far more proactive policing of the Hunting Act, as it has not so far been a sufficiently high priority. The British people continue to overwhelmingly support the Act, but some seem to flout it, so it should be strengthened. Other issues are pressing and need to get this sorted out and move on.
“It is a matter of local pride that Sgt Taylor, based in our constituency, was runner-up in the WWF Wildlife Enforcer of the Year 2008.
“Prosecutions like that of a Conwy Valley man who sold parts of a protected porpoise on eBay, and last week of an Abergele man for having a lot of eggs from rare birds, show what can be done.
“I will continue to support the National Wildlife Crime Unit working in North Wales and elsewhere. They are a vital part of the efforts of people to make this a decent and responsible society, fit for future generations.”
ENDS.