Reach Regulation
The EU commission has started an infringement procedure by sending a letter of formal notice to Italy for failure to comply with the birds directive and the Reach regulation due to the changes introduced in the Italian hunting regulations. The Birds Directive aims to protect all naturally wild bird species and their habitats.
Non-compliance
The Reach Regulation restricts the use of lead-containing ammunition in or near wetlands to protect waterfowl, the environment and human health. The commission found that several pieces of Italian legislation do not comply with this legislation by giving regions the power to authorize the killing or capture of wildlife species.
What Italy must do
This also applies in areas where hunting is prohibited, such as protected areas, and during the time of year when this ban is in place. Furthermore, Italian legislation does not comply with the provisions of the Reach regulation on the use of lead in ammunition. Italy now has 2 months to respond and remedy the shortcomings reported by the commission (source: Arci Caccia/Repubblica).