Home»Latest News»Latest News»Online Survey! Have your say on the introduction of HAMS (Hunter Area Management System)
Further to our previous communications on the introduction of HAMS (Hunter Area Management System), there has been considerable concern among licensed hunters following the announcement by Coillte of the detail around the new reporting and upload phone App for licensed hunting on their property, the provider is a private company based in Hungary – Bit and Pixel Kft, who receive all revenues generated from App registration.
The new version of the App specifically designed for Coillte will have several functions including uploading proof of insurance, tender applications, cull returns, generating permits, and other related documents normally sent/ received by Coillte via email or hard copy. In addition, hunters will be required to check in and out when entering Coillte property and use the App to meet the existing 48 hours-notice requirement to the forest manager/ licence holder. The App will also allow permit holders book hunting on their property with the permission of the licence holder.
HAMS and Coillte believe the App will prevent deer poaching as the App allows the recording of suspicious activity but will not result in any follow up by Coillte or HAMS to such reports. It is also believed the App will benefit deer management, but no detail was provided by Coillte on how the App will benefit or support deer management. The App will create significant administration savings and efficiency for Coillte.
All hunters licensed to hunt on Coillte property – both fur and feather, individuals, tourists or gun club members will be required to pay an annual App subscription charge of €72 to HAMS in addition to their current Coillte hunting licence charge. While Coillte have not been forthcoming regarding the costs and income associated with the introduction and ongoing provision of HAMS, or why HAMS was chosen over other providers. Allowing for 1,400 deer hunting permit/ licence holders on Coillte property and on the basis 10% of game bird hunters shoot on Coillte property this will generate circa €1.54m each year for HAMS.
While Coillte have made it known to a small number of stakeholders of their intention to introduce HAMS, Coillte did not consult with stakeholders on the introduction of an annual subscription charge, nor did they consult with stakeholders on the specific requirements or potential impacts for hunters with the introduction of such an App.
The Irish Deer Commission have requested an urgent meeting with Coillte to discuss this matter, in advance have your say on the introduction of HAMS by completing our online survey.
