Changes to Hunting Regulations Are Unfounded and Subject to Review: Edmon Marukyan

Changes to hunting regulations are unfounded and subject to review. This was announced by Edmon Marukyan, the leader of the "Bright Armenia" faction in the National Assembly of Armenia.

“In defense of the rights of citizens engaged in hunting, two days ago, on August 13, I appealed to the Minister of Environment, Ervik Grigoryan. I have comprehensively substantiated the unacceptability and danger of the changes in the issuance of hunting permits.

Specifically, on one hand, the cost of the license has increased by 7.5 times, and on the other hand, the number of days allowed for hunting has decreased by 3.5 times. Moreover, the decision is fraught with numerous dangers, as allowing hunting only on weekends instead of all week will multiply the accumulation of hunters and vehicles in the relevant areas. Given that several tens of thousands of permits are issued for hunting annually, it becomes clear that ensuring safety will become a significant problem on weekends.

Weather conditions can be favorable throughout the week, whereas they may not be on weekends. The decision is discriminatory for those who work only or also on weekends. Ultimately, birds that do not migrate during the hunting season fly to other countries where they are hunted according to established norms, while they can be hunted in Armenia, providing corresponding income.

Considering the above, I have proposed to keep the current system of issuing hunting permits unchanged. We are waiting for the minister's decision...” the statement reads.