Legal opinion sought over possible ban on animal traps
Both sides in the trapping debate are placing pressure on Vernon city hall, but officials insist their actions will be dictated by the law and not emotion.
The city is investigating legal jurisdiction and the implications if a bylaw banning animal traps is enacted.
"We want to be well informed when we make a decision," said Mayor Rob Sawatzky, adding that part of the process is to determine if the provincial government currently legislates and enforces trapping rules.
"We want to avoid leaving a public safety concern open but we want to avoid duplication (of service)."
The Association for the Protection of Fur Bearing Animals wants a ban on traps, saying they promote cruelty among animals and they put pets and children at risk. However, the B.C. Trappers Association insists traps are needed among licensed operators to handle problem wildlife and there are already provincial and national rules pertaining to use.
See more in Wednesday's Morning Star.
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