Manitoba statement on night hunting:

The ongoing issue is the need to balance safety and sustainability considerations
with fully recognized indigenous rights.
Night hunting is a dangerous practice and in Manitoba it is illegal for both licensed
hunters and for First Nations where harvesting rights do not apply - for example on
private land without permission, from provincial roadways, from vehicles or in a
manner than is dangerous to persons, livestock or other property. (The Wildlife Act,
Part II, Offences, Dangerous Hunting Offences).
Reports of dangerous hunting practices have increased and the number of charges
have grown as well. 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.
Our government has increased enforcement, directing that a minimum of 60
percent of Conservation Officer shifts be devoted to dark hours enforcement during
peak periods. This is an unprecedented directive and one that has resulted in an
increase in the number of charges laid for Night Lighting in 2016 over previous
years.
44 charges of Night Lighting - hunting at night by means of lights - were laid in
2016. Internal data tracks both non-treaty and treaty status of those charged to
determine whether the individuals are licensed or rights-based hunters as that
information has a bearing on whether or not a convicted person will receive a
hunting license suspension.
The attachment summarizes those charged on the dates listed with using lighting at
night under subsection 12 (1) of The Wildlife Act. These matters are scheduled for
appearance in Provincial Court.
The document names 27 of the 44 persons charged with Night Lighting in 2016.
The remaining names are not available for release either because formal
proceedings have not yet begun in provincial court or due to the age of the
individual.
Our government is reaching out to indigenous community members and elders with
the intent of refocusing the discussion where it belongs, on ensuring the safety and
security of all Manitobans.

Olivia Baldwin-Valainis

 Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Executive Council

Government of Manitoba