3 Minute Read
Over the last few of years, the sporting and countryside organisations have probably worked closer than at any other time in their history. With the general licence upheaval in 2019, it became rapidly obvious that combining the expertise of the different organisations could be a real strength on key issues. Working hand-in-hand to great effect on the Covid-19 exemption for shooting, Judicial Reviews (JR), and recent legal challenges has achieved material success. At the Game Fair today the organisations have announced here they have formed a partnership called Aim to Sustain to jointly scan the horizon and seize opportunities whilst monitoring emerging challenges. It will tackle issues on which collaboration and coordination between organisations can be effective in promoting and protecting sustainable shooting – something that many have been calling for. Those in the sporting community are being given a say in its future though a ten-week consultation here.
In some respects, this partnership is giving a public face to a committee that has worked in the background for shooting for many years – the Shoot Liaison Committee (SLC). This has previously helped protect shooting from punitive legislation, and has orchestrated initiatives that have successfully grown the shooting community. Formalising that joint working into a partnership is simply a way to promote game shooting more effectively and efficiently. The time is now right to raise the SLC’s profile for the benefit of shooting and to present a united front.
Why the need for an outward-facing partnership?
We have seen how much can be achieved behind the scenes, but we have also seen the limitations of working that way. This is particularly clear when it comes to politics. Occasionally there needs to be one voice speaking on behalf of all the organisations that have an interest in game shooting. An outward-facing partnership provides the mechanism for this to happen. Each organisation will retain its unique voice, but by being agile in combining expertise on key issues they will show leadership to the wider sector.
Which organisations are involved in this partnership?
The Countryside Alliance, British Association for Shooting & Conservation, British Game Alliance, Country Land & Business Association, Scottish Land & Estates, Moorland Association, National Gamekeepers’ Organisation and the Game Farmers’ Association. The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust is a scientific advisor to the partnership.
Why did the organisations not just merge?
Whilst all the organisations in Aim to Sustain have an interest in shooting, not all are shooting organisations. The partnership creates a much broader alliance than would be possible by merging shooting organisations alone. This also allows the organisations to work efficiently without unnecessary overlap and competition. Aim to Sustain will allow the existing organisations to share expertise while retaining their own voice and identity. The work will be mostly carried out by its member organisations. Additional projects may be funded by separate and standalone fundraising to support identified priorities.
Why is the GWCT an advisor to Aim to Sustainrather than a member?
The organisations within the partnership are there to lobby on behalf of their members. The GWCT is a little different. It is a charity which acts in the public interest. It can, however, advise the member organisations and has been involved in the creation of the partnership
Okay but do I get a say in how the partnership might achieve its aims?
Yes. While the signatory organisations are already fully committed to the successful launch of Aim to Sustain, we want your input. The ten-week ‘Have Your Say’ consultation will give you the chance to help set the direction of shooting’s future.
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