An operation, by authorities in Co. Tipperary and Co. Clare, has been launched to halt the act of illegal hunting and killing of hares.
District Conversation Officers with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, have stated that groups of men from urban areas are regularly observed entering unto farmers lands, without permission being granted, and using dogs, to hunt hares, thus causing great distress to these animals.
The actions by those involved in such trespassing, mainly for gambling purposes, very often result in the intimidation of landowners, by the individuals involved.
Gardaí and National Parks and Wildlife Services are now putting in place targeted checkpoints in areas where such hunting activity has increased; which will involve future prosecutions; the seizure of motor vehicles and the dogs involved.
Concerned persons and animal lovers are asked to keep an eye out for such individuals who usually arrive in one or more vehicles, with a number of greyhound/lurcher type dogs.
Should they enter rural farm lands, then observers are asked to note registration numbers of vehicle and immediately phone/text their local Gardaí with known information.
Members of the general public and landowners are warned not to enter into verbal dispute with the individuals involved.
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