Mount Benger Mail. "BE JUST AND FEAR NOT." SATURDAY, MAY 10, 1884.

Mt Benger Mail, Volume V, Issue 230, 10 May 1884, Page 2

Mount Benger Mail. "BE JUST AND FEAR NOT." SATURDAY, MAY 10, 1884.

Thb Rabbit Nuisance Act, which has been in force for over twelve months, does not seem to have given the satisfaction which perhaps the legislators thought it would do. It is desirable therefore that it be amended in seme respects, as certain provisions are too stringent, as it is a matter of impossibility for many settlers to keep clear of being fined if the Inspector decides to prose cute. Those acquainted with the nature of the country, and the circumstances attending the rabbit pest, cannot fail to observe that the settlers are at times subjected to the greatest of hardships and trials in endeavoring to keep down the pest on their holdings. It is to their interest to keep their lands as free as possible from the ravages of bunny; but after using the utmost zeal and caution it has been found practically impossible to exterminate them, although their numbers have been considerably reduced. But they soon increase again unless rigid exertions are continued. The Act gives Inspectors power to prosecute, and judgment is often given thereon where the rabbits are not at all plentiful—in fact, where careful steps have been taken to destroy them. Inspectors require to use a great deal of discretion in the discharge of their duties, and above all to have no " favourites," otherwise one man may be prosecuted, when perhaps his neighbour is deserving of the action more than himself. It is necessary for the proper abatement of the pest that one and all join in the extermination; and it requires that the Inspector carefully con* sider matters—whether the owners or occupiers of land have done what may reasonably be expected in accordance with the Act—before taking action. We are in no way desirous of advocating that no pressure be brought to bear to see that the people keep down the rabbits, for that is desirable, but this can be done without going to extremes. Doubtless there are some who should be quickened in this respect, who are allowed to take their ease to the annoyance of their neighbors. Too much power is given to Inspectors, and if they choose to use it, the settlerscan be put to a deal of trouble.

This should be remedied. However, while the Act remains as it is, it is to be hoped that Inspectors (while doing their duty) will not go to extremes but satisfy thamselves as to the actions being taken, and on the other hand be sure that all are being dealt with with impartiality and fairness, Our remarks are intended to have a general bearing, not referring particularly to our own district- In the prosecutions referred to, counsel is usually engaged, as if the Inspectors were not capable of conducting their own cases, and thus in addition to the fine, there is the professional fee to pay. Many settlers go to a great deal of expense in keeping down the pest, but still as experience teaches a few rabbits will be seen, and the Inspector can take action, with the result that some fine is imposed with all the necessary costs attendant upon it.