A review of the derogation which allows for landowners to shoot wood pigeons causing damage to crops is under way, Minister for Heritage Malcolm Noonan has said.

The current derogation allowing for the control of certain wild bird species is due to expire on 30 April 2021.

The minister said: “No decisions have been taken at this time in relation to a declaration for period 1 May 2021 to 30 April 2022.

“A review of the declarations is currently under way and my department will welcome any views on the operation of the current declaration or proposals in respect of the 2021/22 declaration.

“Observations should be submitted to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage via e-mail WildBirdDeclarations@chg.gov.ie by 5pm on Wednesday 20 January 2021.”

The derogation allows for landowners to shoot certain wild birds, such as wood pigeons, where they cause serious damage to crops, livestock, fauna or where they represent a threat to public health, throughout the State.