Government mulls 'insane' pilot scheme to allow fishermen shoot seals with high-powered rifles

There are approximately 8,000-10,000 grey seals and about 5,000 harbour seals in Ireland. File picture.

The government is examining the potential for an "insane" pilot scheme to shoot seals with high-powered rifles from boats.

The scheme would see licenses granted potentially in Kerry and Cork to protect fishermen's catches.