Disabled hunting and fishing program expanded

The Newfoundland and Labrador government has expanded inclusion in recreational hunting and fishing through changes to its Hunters and Anglers with Disabilitiesprogram.

The program has broadened its definitionof disabilityso not only does itallowpeople who are legally blind, and/or people with permanent mobility disabilities to participate, but it willnowincludepeoplewith "other permanent disabilities or permanent medical conditions whichlimit their capacity to participate," according to a news release.

Under the program, disabled people who qualify for a big game licencecandesignate a hunterto shoot and retrieve the type and sex of big game animal named on the disabled hunter's licence.

"These activities are an important part of wildlife management, and are valued cultural pursuits in our province. This expanded program will help ensure more people can take part in safe and responsible hunting and angling,"Environment and Conservation Minister DanCrummell said in the release.

As well, nurse practitioners can confirm disability, in addition tomedical doctors and optometrists.

The expanded regulations will come intoeffectApril 1.