ACT Rural Affairs spokesman Gerry Eckhoff today called on farmers to shut their gates on the opening weekend of duck shooting season to stop vehicle access by Fish and Game rangers.

 

“The Fish and Game executive has declared war on farmers with its dirty dairying and right-to-roam campaigns”.

 

Mr Eckhoff said farmers should retaliate in the short term by locking out the rangers, rumoured to be out in large numbers this weekend to enforce their ‘no lead shot’ policy.

 

“I have no doubt whatsoever that having to access ponds and rivers on foot will dampen their enthusiasm.

 

“Fish and Game must recognise their authoritative and abusive attitude towards farmers cannot possibly restore the cooperative relationship that once existed,” Mr Eckhoff said.

 

ENDS

 

Gerry Eckhoff MP                    
gerrard.eckhoff@parliament.govt.nz
Phone:            04 470 6791  /  027 221 3575
Fax:                 04 473 3532