MINDEMOYA—Central Manitoulin council is in favour of the return of the spring bear hunt and wants to know why Manitoulin Island was not included as an area to be part of the nuisance bear pilot project recently announced by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).
“The MNR is bringing back the spring bear hunt for a two year trial period for certain areas of Ontario,” pointed out Councillor Derek Stephens at a council meeting last week. “Manitoulin Island was left out of the zones selected for this pilot project. I know a lot of municipalities on Manitoulin are sending letters to the MNR asking that Manitoulin be included.”
“Bears are a problem here on the Island,” said Councillor Stephens, noting the spring bear hunt “can be an economic benefit for an area.”
Councillor Stephens put forward a motion to have municipal staff send a letter to the MNR to request Central Manitoulin, and the entire Manitoulin Island, included in the spring bear hunt pilot project. Councillor Gloria Haner seconded the motion, which was passed by council.
“If the MNR is saying no to including Manitoulin; why aren’t we included?” asked Councillor Adam McDonald. “I would like them to say there is not a bear problem on the Island.”
“Manitoulin Island definitely has a bear problem,” Councillor Stephens reiterated.
Tom Sasvari
