The Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters issued a press release stating that hunters were threatened by men identifying themselves as guides, after telling them they were not permitted to hunt in the area. A source says the hunting location was in Cape Breton. The hunters left reluctantly after they say the men told them they would burn their vehicles if they didn't leave.

Media Release:

A group of Nova Scotia hunters who are certified and legally licensed to hunt in the area where they were hunting have reported they were accosted by five men on ATVs (illegal within this area during hunting season). Some of the ATV riders were later identified as Guides who should understand the law and hunting regulations. The hunting group were told to get out of the area as they were not allowed to hunt there without guides. As this assertion is not correct our hunters stated they might stay and hunt. The supposed leader of the guides then struck one of the hunters knocking of his hat and informed the group their trucks would be burned and left a shell if they stayed. The hunters reluctantly left the area.

Upon contacting the local RCMP office they were told that nothing could be done unless charges were actually laid. They called Department of Lands and Forestry local office and were told they needed to talk to the local enforcement officer with NSE. After several attempts they made contact after a day and a half. The enforcement officer told them he could go to the individuals but would be told by them to get lost. There was noting the officer could do that would result in anything positive. He was, therefore unwilling to do anything.

The hunters contacted NSFAH to see if anything could be done about this situation. The Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters (NSFAH) quickly wrote letters to the Premier, Minister of NSE, Minister of DLF and many other Government officials but all we have in to date is an automated reply that Government had received the letters.

Our position is that such instances may result in disaster. The hunters firmly believe they were in physical danger, were exposed to implied extensive property damage and were unable to conduct a legal activity.

The NSFAH want Government to initiate an immediate investigation into this situation and let NSFAH and other concerned individuals know the result.

Yours in Conservation

Travis McLeod – President NSFAH