Global News - April 2008

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Scottish officials look to get tough on wildlife crimes

Thu 17 April 2008 17:00 UK — Europe,Other

Officials in Scotland are looking to tackle the illegal killing of rare animals and birds in the country.

A joint report from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary Scotland (HMICS) and the Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland highlighted the need for a clear wildlife crime reduction strategy to curb offences.

Recommendations in the report include the development and implementation of a minimum standard of investigation to ensure that wildlife crime was tackled throughout Scotland.

It also suggests that each police force in the country looks to employ a full-time wildlife crime coordinator.

Her Majesty's chief inspector of constabulary, Paddy Tomkins, commented: "Wildlife crime detracts from one of Scotland's greatest assets - its natural and national heritage."

"This review confirms that the public indignation that such crimes create deserves and can be met with a professional and effective level of response from enforcement agencies.

"In doing so we will further marginalise and isolate those few offenders who continue to commit wildlife crime."

Talking to the BBC, environment minister Mike Russell added: "A crime against Scotland's rich and unique natural heritage is a crime against Scotland itself, be it poisoning a bird of prey or badger baiting."

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