SNP caves to shooting lobby
The SNP has caved to the shooting lobby, says Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess, following the decision to delay the implementation of muirburn licensing provisions until Autumn 2026.
Ariane has accused Ministers of putting the interests of wealthy landowners ahead of environmental protection and public safety. She is calling for the immediate implementation of muirburn licensing, proper investment in emergency services, and a supported shift away from land management practices that fuel ecological degradation.
Ariane said:
“This is deeply disappointing. We have just had a summer of devastating wildfires across Scotland, and it is vital that we act rather than backtracking. Yet again, the SNP is bending to the demands of wealthy landowners.
“During the scrutiny of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Act we took detailed evidence on the role of muirburn in wildfire risk. There is very little credible evidence to support the hunting and shooting lobby’s ridiculous claim that these practices have any role in preventing wildfires."
Ariane also called for the Scottish Government to properly fund the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, which she says is being pushed to breaking point.
Ariane added:
“All over our country there are fire stations and control rooms crumbling, and firefighters are being asked to do more with less in the face of intensifying climate-driven emergencies like wildfires and floods.
“We need bold action to tackle the climate crisis head-on. That means rewetting peatlands, rewilding and reforesting landscapes to retain water, and accelerating the reintroduction of beavers and apex predators.
“Instead, the government is preserving barren grouse moors for the entertainment of a privileged few at the expense of the rural communities who are on the frontline of the climate emergency.”