Children ‘can hunt on public land’

CHILDREN as young as 12 who have been shooting feral animals on public land for more than a decade have been doing it legally, says Premier Barry O’Farrell.

The Games Council has issued junior hunting permits since 2002 but concerns have been raised that these permits could contravene the Firearms Act, which states children can only use a gun for the purposes of instruction.

Critics say this means minors could face potential criminal charges carrying sentences of up to five years’ detention.

But Mr O’Farrell today (Tuesday) says he’s spoken to New South Wales Police Minister, Mike Gallacher, who “has made clear there are no concerns about that”.

“Police have indicated that what is happening is absolutely in line with all the regulations,” the Premier has told Sydney journalists.

However, Greens MP David Shoebridge says the Act is clear and states that it’s unlawful for a child to use a firearm for the purpose of hunting.

“A minor’s permit only entitles a child to use a firearm for the purpose of instruction in its safe use or for authorised target shooting,” says Mr Shoebridge.

“Children out hunting in state forests are there for the purpose of killing animals, not for instruction.

“They are almost certainly breaking the law.”

Last week, Mr O’Farrell announced the Game Council would be subjected to a full review following revelations that charges could be laid against its acting chief executive Greg McFarland.

He’s been suspended over allegations of illegal hunting, trespassing and the inhumane killing of a feral goat in central NSW.

The taxpayer-funded body is assigned with overseeing the rollout of amateur hunting of feral animals in 77 national parks and reserves, which has been put on hold until a review is completed.