The Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority, EPAA, has assigned tomorrow (Tuesday) as the deadline for the delivery of dangerous predatory animals in implementation of the administrative order of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, prohibiting the possession of dangerous predators in the Emirate of Sharjah.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Sharjah Environment and Natural Reserves Authority, said that Sheikh Sultan's order came in response to the multiple encounters individuals have recently had with predatory animals.
She pointed to the importance of Resolution No.15 of 2014, issued by the Sharjah Ruler in November, banning the possession of dangerous predators, adding that it embodies H.H. Sheikh Sultan's keenness to ensure the safety of Sharjah's citizens and residents by protecting them from predators that pose a significant threat to public life in the emirate.
She added that according to Article 01 of the resolution, people are prohibited from holding dangerous predatory animals in their homes or farms in the Emirate of Sharjah, regardless of the purpose of the acquisition.
The provisions of Article 01 of this resolution exclude licensed members of the public as well as private zoos, scientific research centres and universities holding the animals for scientific purposes or for the purpose of presentations and entertainment, provided that they obtain a licence from the EPAA.
The order also states that the Executive Council of the emirate will issue a decision upon the request of the EPAA President regarding the regulation of technical conditions that must be met to license the possession of dangerous predators and will detail the penalties to be imposed on violators.
The resolution penalises anyone who violates Article 01 of this resolution with a fine of Dh100,000, while the EPAA will hold the seized animals.
Source: WAM