Private sector organisations have expressed serious reservations about the government's draft policy for the sustainable use of large predators in South Africa, saying the policy is not strict enough.

Their objections spring from the fact that the planned new policy measures are designed mainly to regulate practices such as so-called "canned lion hunting, while ignoring other important aspects of conservation.

The draft policy was recently published by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism in the Government Gazette, for public comment. Sanwild Trust, a body strongly opposed to the measures in their present form, has set up facilities to encourage wider public participation in the legislation process.

The trust is opposed to the breeding and hunting of lions and other predators under semi-captive conditions, and insists that some of the provisions of the policy are too vague. The size of enclosures accommodating predators, as well as the type of fencing required, are two of many issues Sanwild is querying.

The trust pointed out this week that provincial conservation authorities had been unable to control irresponsible private predator breeding and hunting. This made the adoption of a comprehensive national policy absolutely essential. A government moratorium on certain types of hunting, introduced in 1997, had proved to be ineffective, the trust insisted.

The Department has welcomed the wide interest in the subject, shown by individuals, conservation groups and business enterprises, and has pointed out that a participatory process would be launched soon.

Sanwild has created an information line, to ensure that the nation is kept informed on developments. South Africans from all walks of life can participate by sending their views to [email protected].