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How we can return to shooting in Scotland

The Scottish Countryside Alliance has submitted a three phase action plan on how we can return to shooting as lockdown restrictions are eased, in response to the Scottish Government's 'Framework for Decision Making'.

The Framework for Decision Making is part of the Scottish Government's effort to inform, and listen to, the people of Scotland. The document outlines the principles and approach to managing their way through and out of this crisis to a 'new normal'.

When introducing the new guidance, the First Minister pointed out that she wanted to keep the public up to speed with their thinking, to share as much as the Scottish Government could of that and to involve people in those decisions.

Recognising the geographical and sectoral differences throughout Scotland's communities and business hubs and the very different challenges faced, the Scottish Government have committed to the reopening of certain workplaces as soon as possible, but only when it is safe to do so. This will be on the basis of a solid framework of guidance that supports safe working and is consistent with our Fair Work approach.

As the Scottish Government prepares its own framework for a "step lock" phased approach to working life, so too must the leaders of Scotland's rural industries and sectors.

With this in mind, the Scottish Countryside Alliance has submitted a document to the government making the case for shooting.

The report makes the case that shooting activities, whether on clay grounds, in the pigeon hide, or driven shooting, are not only comparatively safe in terms of the potential to spread COVID-19, but also points out the important role that shooting and other countryside activities, like stalking, play in keeping people's bodies and minds healthy. The Countryside Alliance's document, entitled "A return to shooting", sets out a three-phase plan to reintroduce shooting to the countryside and offers an insight to the safe operation of a phased restart of the sector and supporting businesses, when safe to do so.

The document can be accessed here.

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