Newfoundland and Labrador hunters found guilty of Migratory Bird Convention Act, 1994 violations

Fined $3,500 each and ordered to forfeit hunting equipment

GRAND BANK, NL, May 30, 2016 /CNW/ - Two hunters recently learned a lesson the hard way: illegal hunting of migratory birds does not pay—in fact, it costs a lot. 

On May 25, Albert Joseph Stacey and Morris Deon Mews of Fortune, N.L., were each sentenced for three violations under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. The offences involved exceeding the 20‑bird per person daily bag limit for murres, possessing a migratory bird carcass and hunting migratory birds without a permit.

Both men have been ordered to pay a penalty of $3,500 and to forfeit items used while carrying out the offences. They are also prohibited from hunting for two years.  

The total $7,000 in penalties will be allocated to the Government of Canada's Environmental Damages Fund (EDF).

Quick facts

• On February 24, Environment and Climate Change Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador wildlife enforcement officers conducted a wildlife patrol near Fortune, N.L. During a boat inspection, officers found Mr. Stacey and Mr. Mews in possession of 58 murres, 18 of which were in excess of their total 40‑bird daily bag limit. They also had 5 Atlantic puffins and a pigeon (guillemont), both of which are protected non‑game migratory birds.
• Enforcement officers seized the following items: 2 firearms, ammunition, 64 migratory birds, and with the cooperation of the RCMP and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Stacey's 21‑foot osprey boat, its motor and all its contents, worth an estimated $25,000.
• On April 27, 2016, Stacey and Mews both pleaded guilty to sections 7, 6(b) and 5(1) of the Migratory Birds Regulations under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994.
• The EDF was created in 1995 to provide a way to direct funds received as a result of fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit the environment.

Associated links

Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 and regulations

Environmental Damages Fund

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SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada

Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free)