This is a further provision aimed at ending practices which result in disturbance or excessive killing of wild birds, especially game. It is, of course, aimed also at the poacher. The section proposes to ban the use of moving motor vehicles, motor-boats and aircraft in hunting protected wild birds and the use of such vehicles, whether they are in motion or stationary, in hunting protected wild animals. The harrassment of game birds from moving vehicles is objectionable because it generates unreasonable disturbance and pressure: it can be no part of good management of game resources.

Would this include the type of boat that they use down in the sloblands in Wexford—the Chairman would be familiar with this—for going through bullrushes and so on. It could hardly be described as mechanically-propelled.

No, it is not mechanically propelled.

Is a punt prohibited anywhere in the Bill?

No.

The geese have no chance.

This only applies to protected birds.

Yes, protected birds.

I suspect the Chairman is using his influence to keep the punt gun out of this.

It is extraordinary how unfair statements can be made. If the Chairman had his way the contrary would be the case.

It is a bit farfetched, in regard to subsection (2), to think that we would use an aeroplane.

We are throwing in the aeroplane for good measure.

I do not know that it is so remote. The Minister for Defence we have now is quite capable of going up in one of his helicopters.

He would need to be in a helicopter to watch some of the things that are going on.

I think it is very necessary to provide for the use of aircraft and so on. It is essential to look ahead.

There is provision for scientific research. Would this have to come from a voluntary organisation or could it be from an individual?

It would be carried out under licence.

The Americans use a shooting brake. Is that ruled out?

No, it would not be mechanically-propelled.

It is, of course.

If it is mechanically-propelled, it is excluded.