The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines condemns all activities that result in the burning of natural vegetation on Petit Canouan.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour says the unlawful practice of seasonally burning large areas of the landscape in order to provide greater access to the illegal harvesting of bird eggs will not be tolerated.
This activity results in the reduction or elimination of critical seabird populations and habitats.
Persons who are engaged in illegal activities on Wildlife Reserves are asked to cease and desist.
A strategic monitoring process will be established to ensure full compliance. All systems will be engaged to ensure the increased enforcement of the Wildlife Act.
Petit Canouan is home to thousands of birds and for this reason was designated as a Wildlife Reserve.
PRESS RELEASE