MEDIA RELEASE
May 26, 2011
FAIR CHASE ACT WOULD CLARIFY HUNTING RULES, PROMOTE GOOD SPORT
VICTORIA— New Democrat MLA Michael Sather introduced the Fair Chase Act today, a bill which would clarify rules around using motor vehicles while hunting.
”This bill would clarify the rules for ethical hunting and ensure that those who are less familiar with the concept of fair chase are given clear guidelines to follow while hunting,” said Sather.
The Wildlife Act prohibits harassment of wildlife by use of a motorized vehicle. However, the definition of harass is such that it is unclear whether or not such behavior is illegal in the process of hunting that is otherwise legal. The Fair Chase Act will serve to eliminate that ambiguity.
”This legislation would ensure that new hunters, and hunters who are unfamiliar with the way hunting is done in British Columbia, understand that they must allow wildlife a fair opportunity to escape as part of the chase,” said Sather.
The act would also extend the prohibition against baiting wildlife to include wolves.
”Baiting of wildlife has long been considered reprehensible behaviour,” said Sather. “This act will ensure that wolves get the same protections as bears in this regard.”
Adrian Dix and the New Democrats have a plan to protect and preserve our natural environment for British Columbians today and for generations to come.
