May 14, 2015
Manitoba Government Introduces Wildlife and Fisheries Amendment Act
The Manitoba government introduced the wildlife and fisheries amendment act today, which would help protect wildlife, give conservation officers more time and more tools to investigate, and make it easier for people to apply for guide licences, Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Tom Nevakshonoff announced today.
“We recognize the numerous and vital roles played when it comes to hunting, fishing and conservation efforts in Manitoba,” said Minister Nevakshonoff. “The proposed amendments will help with enforcement efforts and also let us work with our partners to create efficiencies in obtaining hunting guide licences for those that meet the criteria.”
Highlights of the proposed changes include:
- better information sharing between provinces that would ensure banned hunters can’t get a licence in another province;
- doubling maximum penalties to $25,000 or $100,000, depending on the offence;
- allowing seizure of additional items such as cellphones, documents or GPS units during an investigation;
- increasing the statute of limitations, which would allow officers more time to investigate before laying a charge;
- effective fall 2016, ending the requirement for trappers to pay royalties on fur-bearing animals; and
- adding snapping turtles and painted turtles to the protected species list.
The proposed changes would allow the provincial government to move toward an electronic licensing system so licences and permits could be issued online. The Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association (MLOA) would also become more involved in licence administration by collecting applications, and issuing renewals and guide licences.
“The MLOA is looking forward to working with and supporting Manitoba's hard-working and knowledgeable hunting guides,” said Paul Turenne, executive director, Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association. “We are also pleased to see many of the other changes proposed in the act, particularly with respect to electronic licensing and increased fines for poachers.”
“We are pleased to see these additional measures put in place and support the responsible management of these important natural resources,” said Brian Strauman, president, Manitoba Wildlife Federation. “Our members support responsible hunting, and are encouraged by the additional enforcement efforts and tools for conservation officers.”
These proposed changes support TomorrowNow – Manitoba’s Green Plan, an eight-year plan that supports environmental protection while ensuring a prosperous and environmentally conscious economy.
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