Achill IFA says a structured deer management programme is currently underway in the Achill area in response to the serious increase in deer-related road traffic incidents experienced locally in recent years.
Over the past number of years, and particularly in recent times, many people in the Achill parish have come forward with accounts of collisions and near misses involving wild deer on local roads, including the Achill–Mulranny road, roads across the Achill and Currane peninsula. These incidents have resulted in injuries to motorists and serious vehicle damage.
In response to these public safety concerns raised by the community, a coordinated deer management programme has now been put in place in the Achill area. The programme is being directed by the FRS Co-Op Deer Management Programme, working closely with local licensed gun club members, and is being carried out in a structured and lawful manner through a recognised deer management framework. All activity is undertaken by licensed and insured hunters operating under the relevant permissions and licensing provisions of the Wildlife Acts and in cooperation with the appropriate authorities.
Achill IFA insists that this is a controlled programme involving authorised and licensed participants only. Achill is not open to outside or unauthorised hunting activity. The aim is responsible management of the deer population while ensuring the safety of road users and maintaining a sustainable balance with the natural environment.