Tánaiste rejects calls to allow gun owners shoot pheasants during lockdown

Michael O'Donovan of Rathcormac Gun Club in Co Cork, with his dog Oscar. Picture: David Keane

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar has rejected calls from several of his TDs and senators to allow gun owners shoot pheasants this winter.

At a private meeting of the Fine Gael parliamentary party, calls were made from a number of rural party members who said the ban on shooting is “illogical” and will lead to an increase in roadkill.