Government criticised over scheme to shoot seals from boats

The government's being criticised for considering a scheme to shoot seals with high-power rifles from boats.

It would see licenses given in Kerry and Cork to protect fishermen's catches.

There are around 10,000 grey seals and 5,000 harbour seals in Ireland.

The government says it's examining a pilot scheme, which has been delayed due to the pandemic.

Melanie Croce, the Executive Director of Seal Rescue Ireland, says it shouldn't be happening: