SEBG News
Scottish Estates Condemn Wildlife Crime
2nd October 2007The Scottish Estates Business Group, which represents progressive rural estates throughout Scotland, today (Tuesday, October 2) strongly condemned instances of wildlife crime and said estates needed to put in place measures to ensure the law is upheld.
The group, which includes many major estates in Scotland, set out its formal position in the following statement.
“SEBG strongly condemns any illegal activity. The Group expects its Members to adhere to best practice. A member convicted of a wildlife crime will have their membership withdrawn. Members should put the necessary employment terms in place to rule against breaches and to take disciplinary action against any employee convicted of an offence which, depending on the nature and seriousness of the offence, may include dismissal. If disciplinary action is not taken against an employee who has been found guilty of a wildlife crime, then that member will be asked to leave the Group.”
David Gwyther, deputy chairman of SEBG, said: “Wildlife crime is a real concern to those who have the interests of the countryside at heart.
“The overwhelming majority of estates, landowners, land managers and gamekeepers in Scotland operate to the highest standards in the stewardship of their estates. However, SEBG is committed to playing its part in helping to eradicate wildlife crime in Scotland and ensuring best practice is adhered to rigorously and demonstrated clearly.”
About SEBG:
SEBG represents a group of progressive land-based estates with significant agricultural and rural business interests. It aims to promote a modern business approach in the management of Scotland's land resource in ways which deliver social, economic and environmental benefits. The Group seeks to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for rural areas and its members work hard across Scotland to stimulate enterprise and economic development.
Further information:
Polly McPherson:
pollymcpherson@sebg.org
Tel: 07810891831
