Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch this week contributed to the Scottish Parliament debate on Wildlife Crime, which had a particular focus on the recent Raptor killings that have occurred in Seaforth around the Ross-shire village of Conon Bridge.

Dave expressed his condemnation at the killings and conveyed his frustration that the perpetrators remain at large.

He noted that members regardless of political hue are united in their disgust at recent events.

But he also urged caution in relation to the police investigation, stating that:

“There should not be a knee-jerk reaction to recent events. We need to find out exactly what happened before we come to any conclusions about what we need to do”.

The Minister referred to the sensitivity of information regarding cause of death that the police are willing to release at this stage.

Dave fully understands that any undue speculation would only undermine the investigative process.

He pointed out that this will better enable the police and other authorities to get on with their investigations, which will in-turn increase the likelihood of the police bringing those responsible to account.

Whilst urging caution, he welcomed the opening of a consultation on increasing the SSPCA’s investigative authority in such matters and asked that the Government look into using local authority animal health inspectors as they have responsibilities under certain animal health laws.

Note:

Link to Dave’s Raptor Speech:

http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/28862.aspx?r=9148&mode=html#iob_82530