The European Commission has opened infringement proceedings against Italy due to its failure to align with EU hunting directives. Brussels found that "several Italian legislative acts do not comply with EU legislation". In particular, it referred to the Birds Directive and the REACH Regulation, which "restricts the use of lead-containing shot" to "protect waterfowl, the environment and human health". In the letter sent to Rome, the Commission points out that, in violation of the Birds Directive, "Italian legislation gives regions the power to authorize the killing or capture of wildlife species, even in areas where hunting is prohibited, such as protected areas, and during the period of the year when hunting is prohibited". The Italian legislation also does not comply with the provisions of the REACH Regulation on the use of lead in ammunition. Brussels also believes that national authorities have not taken adequate measures to monitor and combat the incidental capture of dolphins, turtles and seabirds during fishing activities. A phenomenon that, Brussels writes in a note, poses a risk to the conservation of protected species and biodiversity.
|