Minister Announces Implementation of Deer Culling Based on New Report’s Recommendations for Wild Population Management
Deer culling is set to be implemented following the recommendations of a new report on wild deer population management, announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food, and Marine Charlie McConalogue. The report, produced by the Irish Deer Management Strategy Group, highlights the exponential growth of deer populations, posing challenges to biodiversity and farm management.
The group proposes extending hunting seasons for both male and female deer, appointing a national programme manager to establish local deer management units, and exploring the feasibility of a national deer management agency. Chaired by Teddy Cashman, the group, formed 14 months ago, was tasked with reviewing issues related to the unchecked and expanding wild deer population.
The report, containing 15 recommendations, is scheduled to be presented at a Cabinet meeting, with Minister McConalogue expressing the intention to proceed with deer culling based on these suggestions. He plans to appoint a team leader early in the New Year to establish local deer management groups in areas with substantial deer populations. Additionally, adjustments to national laws regarding the shooting season for deer culling will be considered.
Minister McConalogue emphasised the importance of sustainable management of the national wild deer population for agriculture, the natural ecosystem, and forestry goals. He noted the broader impact of deer proliferation on road safety, animal health, public health, and the welfare of the deer themselves.
The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) welcomed the move, describing it as long overdue. ICMSA President Pat McCormack highlighted concerns among farmers about deer numbers over the past decade, linking deer expansion to issues such as the spread of bovine tuberculosis, forestry destruction, and biodiversity concerns. He urged the minister to initiate the cull in January 2024.
The report also suggests the establishment of a national Deer Management Agency, incentives for deer culling, increased flexibility outside the shooting season under the Wildlife Acts, and integration of deer management into agricultural, forestry, and environmental management training. Co. Wicklow is identified as a current “deer hotspot,” with emerging hotspots in counties Tipperary, Waterford, Donegal, and Galway. The report’s recommendations follow a public consultation that garnered 1,500 responses, with 86% supporting the importance of deer culling to address the population issue.
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