Statement from the Pallister government’s director of communications:
Night hunting is a dangerous practice. And in Manitoba, it is illegal both for licensed
hunters and for First Nations where harvesting rights do not apply - for example on
private land without permission or from provincial roadways.
Our government has increased enforcement but increased enforcement will not, on its
own, be enough to curtail this dangerous practice.
Every Manitoban has the right to safety and security but discussion around the topics of
night hunting and dangerous hunting have become focused on the rights of one group
versus another. There must be a change in attitude and we must recognize that rights
do not trump responsibilities. Our government is reaching out to all indigenous
communities and we will continue to engage leaders, community members and elders
on this and other important issues.
Reports of dangerous hunting practices have increased and the number of charges
associated with night hunting have grown dramatically. Two human lives have been lost,
livestock have been found shot on private property and agricultural equipment, homes
and buildings have been hit by stray bullets. This has unfortunately resulted in
escalating tensions in many parts of rural Manitoba and we remain concerned about the
risk of vigilante behavior.
It is my desire to reinforce our government's view that safety and sustainability must
remain our paramount focus in these discussions and consultations. Consultations thus
far indicate there is much shared concern by all involved, including First Nations
communities and elders, on issues around public safety and sustainability of our wildlife
resources.
Our government is pursuing a cooperative dialogue which will include all parties to this
issue in order to ensure that public safety and wildlife conservation are at the center of
any enhanced enforcement initiatives intended to curtail this dangerous practice. Safety
and sustainability must remain our paramount focus.
Olivia Baldwin-Valainis
Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Executive Council
Government of Manitoba