Wildlife crime unit still not up and running despite promises

The aftermath of the devastating fire in Killarney National Park, a hind sika deer standing near the entrance of Glaishin na Marbh and the Eagles Nest, along the Long Range River. Picture: Valerie O'Sullivan

There is still no timescale on the establishment of a wildlife crime unit, despite its formation being announced nearly a year ago.

The current biodiversity crisis in Ireland, as well as increasing crimes against animals such as deer, hares, and birds, prompted Heritage Minister Malcolm Noonan to announce the formation of a dedicated unit within the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) last October.