DCS SNH merger
21 April 2008
The ability to engage with stakeholders and sound deer management expertise are crucial to the sustainable management of Scotland’s wild deer resource, according to the Deer Commission for Scotland (DCS).
Speaking on the day Scottish Environment Minister, Mike Russell confirmed the merger between the Deer Commission for Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage, DCS Chairman John Milne said the ability to speak and listen to those working in the deer sector, and to apply deer management expertise in a balanced and considered way were key factors in making deer management a success.
He said, “Now that the Minister has confirmed that the merger will take place, I, with the Board of DCS and staff, will work with SNH and the Scottish Government to build upon the advances made in recent years to secure the sustainable management of Scotland’s wild deer resource.
The need to balance differing land uses while securing deer welfare was at the heart of the debate that led to the creation of the Deer Commission for Scotland and will be just as relevant when the merger takes place. This requirement to balance differing land use aspirations has ensured DCS has adopted an empathetic working style with all in the deer sector which is built on sound expertise and it is important that this continues.”
Commenting on the news DCS Chief Executive Nick Halfhide highlighted the work currently conducted by DCS and the need to strengthen deer management capacity within government through the merger process.
He said: “The Deer Commission’s current work programme will develop new ways to strengthen the delivery of sustainable deer management in line with the Scottish Government’s forthcoming Strategy for Wild Deer. As we prepare for the merger, we will work closely with SNH to ensure that our combined ability to deliver this programme is maintained and strengthened to the benefit of all concerned with the management of Scottish wild deer.”
Please click here to read the Scottish Government press release