Sixty-eight honorary game wardens were handed letters of appointment on Saturday as Trinidad’s Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (M.A.L.F) takes steps to combat the illegal wildlife trade in the twin island republic.
Last month, 396 honorary game wardens were officially appointed via Gazette as outlined in the Conservation of Wildlife Act, the training and delivery of appointment letters will continue during this month.
Honorary game wardens are volunteers who are conferred with the same powers as game wardens; empowered under the Conservation of Wildlife Act and related legislation.
While speaking at the appointment ceremony at Caroni Bird Sanctuary Agriculture Minister Kazim Hosein, commended the volunteers hailing their decision to serve as a patriotic act saying, “service to man is service to God.”
He reminded the volunteers that the preservation of the ecosystem is paramount for future generations
“Your role as guardians of our nation’s conservation efforts is crucial to the agriculture sector and the modern hunting culture as it provides an added level of enforcement against poachers and persons who commit wildlife offences and infractions.”
Last week, the minster reminded the nation that the illegal trade of wildlife will not be tolerated following the seizure of exotic animals by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Force.
He reiterated to the audience that the animals may bring diseases and viral infections into the shores, which could have disastrous effects on the environment and also the prices at the market.
“The importation of illegal animals into this country is linked to a larger criminal enterprise. These boats are not transporting animals alone but other illegal items which fuel and fund the criminal enterprise of this country. Your service is vital in combating these crimes.”
He said there are currently 46 game wardens employed with the ministry and the most recent appointments would strengthen the unit’s capabilities.
The last batch of honorary game wardens was appointed in 2016.
CMC
