Gamekeepers slam national parks process

Scotland’s gamekeepers have criticised the stakeholder process for new national parks in Scotland claiming land managers’ views are being under-represented.

The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) believe the proposed aims of new parks, for nature recovery and Net Zero, are likely to impact most on people currently working the land for a living.

However, despite this, they say that agriculture and private interests are currently underrepresented in the process, with government bodies and environment NGOs dominating.

Furthermore, they claim the consultative experience has alienated land managers because communications are laden with policy jargon the ordinary person can’t understand.

The creation of at least one new national park by 2026 is a commitment of the Scottish Government; a legacy of the Bute House agreement between SNP and the Greens.

Amongst contenders wishing to see a park in their region are Galloway and the Borders, with the present 2 parks being sited around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and the Cairngorms.

Writing in response to a consultation, which closes on Wednesday, the SGA questioned the process so far, with much at stake for the likes of gamekeepers, farmers, deer managers and crofters.

“The question must be raised, if the Scottish Government and NatureScot genuinely wish to encourage an inclusive and widereaching response, why is the consultation process so inhibiting? The lack of representation by those that earn their living from the land and ordinary citizens is apparent,” the organisation stated.

“The narrative that pervades the consultation document and associated conversations applies a technical discourse that is specialised, selective and marginalising.

“Loaded with policy speak and legal jargon, it poses considerable challenges to the layperson.”