Deer population growth will lead to culling according to report

The culling of deer is due to take place in the New Year as recommended by the Irish Deer Management Strategy Group’s report.

The report, which was compiled by the Deer Management Strategy Group, and chaired by Mr Teddy Cashman, will lead the development of a renewed vision and strategy for the management of wild deer. 

The report also recommends extending the hunting season for both male and female deer. The report was published by ministers Charlie McConalogue and Malcolm Noonan.

Minister McConalogue said: “The growing deer population is a considerable problem and I will be actioning the recommendations immediately in the new year. This will include the creation of a deer management agency, the establishment of local deer management units and changes to the Open Seasons order.”

He added that the impact of deer proliferation extends to road safety, animal health, public health, and not least the health and welfare of the deer themselves.

The report has been welcomed by Independent Councillor Michael McClafferty who said he hopes the findings of the report are put into place as soon as possible. The councillor has raised concerns in relation to the impact that deer has on road safety on many occasions at Glenties Municipal District. 

He said: “The deer numbers need to be reduced in a humane way in the interest of road safety.”