Wildlife Act, 1976.

The Act rules that is a function of the Minister to secure the conservation of wildlife. Section 11 outlines functions of Minister in relation to wildlife. Section 12 sets out obligations generally of Ministers of State and certain other authorities and bodies in relation to nature reserves and refuges. The Wildlife Advisory Council is established under section 13.
Section 15 provides for the creation of nature reserves on lands owned by the Minister or by the State, whereas section 16 provides for nature reserves on land other than land to which section 15 applies. Section 17 gives the Minister the possibility to create wildlife refuges and section 18 provides for agreements that may be concluded between the Minister and owners of land for purposes of wildlife management on that land. Sections 24 to 44 deal with hunting, use of hunting gear, open seasons, etc. Section 43 concerns land drainage schemes in relation with protection of wildlife. The second part of this Act deals regulates (control of) wildlife dealing and the transport, and importation and exportation of wildlife. Section 48 provides for granting of a certificate by a Justice of the District Court authorizing the issue of a licence to the applicant authorizing him to carry on business as a wildlife dealer at premises specified both in the certificate and in the licence. Section 55 makes provision for land purchase orders by the Minister for the purpose for this Act or of the Forestry Acts, 1946 and 1956. Section 57 regulates State ownership of certain inland waters. Sections 59 to concerns access to land, rights of way, and easements. Any authorized officer may at any reasonable time enter on, inspect and survey any land for the purpose of ascertaining whether there are fauna on the land which are in need of protection under section 17 of this Act. (78 sections completed by 5 Schedules)