Madigan gives green light for coursing to begin

THE re-issuing of the hare licence by Minister Joespha Madigan last Friday has been widely welcomed by the coursing clubs throughout the county.

This season had been in doubt in recent weeks following the discovery of the virus RHD2 (rabbit haemorrhage disease) in two species found in Wexford in early August.

While the spread of the disease has been common amongst rabbits in Asia and mainland Europe in recent years, its effect on the Irish hare was relatively unknown.

The ICC, who govern the sport of coursing in Ireland, undertook an extensive scientific study of the disease and its effects, if any, on the hare population. Specialists from throughout Europe were invited to assist in their research of the virus and following a presentation of their findings to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and senior officials from the Departments of Agriculture, Arts Heritage and the Gaeltacht, it was decided to reverse the ban on the netting licence. While some conditions apply to licence, the recommencement of activities gives the sport a huge shot in the arm. A recent study by Queens University in Belfast found that areas in which licensed coursing clubs exist, the hare population is vastly increased, which enhances the ICC’s reputation as custodians of the hare.

While the season would usually be in full flow at this time of the year, a revised calendar of fixtures is due to be published today (Wednesday). It is expected that the opening meeting of the season will be in Kerry with an exceptionally busy schedule from here until Christmas when traditionally the Kingdom Cup meeting brings the curtain down on the season in the Kingdom.

The highlight of the season is the National Coursing Meeting at Clonmel, which attracts over 40,000 thousand spectators to the South Tipperary town over three days in early February.