The Municipality of Pyli proceeded to issue a resolution supporting hunting and other activities in Tzoumerka and rejecting the proposal of the researchers in the context of drafting the draft Presidential Decree for the Natura 2000 areas:
The Resolution is as follows:
The Municipal Council of Pyli:
-Points out that 80% of the areas that are to be characterized as Natura 2000 Areas in the context of the project “Preparation of Special Environmental Studies, Drafting of Presidential Protection Decrees and Management Plans for the Areas of the Natyra 2000 Network” NRP 11b: Natura 2000 Areas of the Region of Epirus and the Region of Western Macedonia – EAST SECTION already belong to the National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri, Arachthos Gorge and Acheloos Valley, which was established by Presidential Decree 49/2009. This means that the necessary studies were carried out, consultation took place and then the aforementioned Presidential Decree was issued.
-It is against the hunting ban provided for in the NTUA 11b plan: Natura 2000 areas of the Region of Epirus and the Region of Western Macedonia – EASTERN SECTION, from Peristeri, (Mount Lakmos), Kalarrhites, Syrrako and Matsouki, Pigadia, Kalentzi and Monolithi, to Vourgareli, Athamanio, Thodoriana, Neraida and Pachtouri. All of it. the Athaman Mountains up to the northern part of the Valtos Mountains.
-It opposes the restrictions and prohibitions provided for in the NTUA 11b plan: Natura 2000 areas of the Region of Epirus and the Region of Western Macedonia – EASTERN SECTION, in activities such as livestock farming, tourist infrastructure, livestock – agricultural facilities, sports facilities, equestrian centers, use of trails, etc.
-It rejects the proposal of the researchers to ban hunting and to establish restrictions and prohibitions on activities such as livestock farming, tourist infrastructure, livestock – agricultural facilities, sports facilities, equestrian centers, use of trails, etc. in the Tzoumerka area and calls on them to modify the study, maintaining the existing status quo.
-Calls on the Minister of PEN and the competent Secretary General to reflect on the social role of hunting, especially for the remote areas of Tzoumerka, as well as its contribution to the local economy and development.
-Points out that the ban on hunting in the Tzoumerka area will be a devastating blow to the local economy and will essentially be the “tombstone” in the effort to develop and recover the area, contributing to the shrinkage and desertification of the villages of the Regions: Epirus, Western Macedonia (eastern part) as well as the wider area of Western Thessaly.
