Thousands of anxious Ontario turkey hunters are breathing a collective sigh of relief today with the announcement that temporary Outdoors Cards and licences are being made available at about 80 outlets across southern Ontario.
In order to legally hunt turkeys, hunters must have a valid outdoors card, small game licence and a special wild turkey licence that can only be issued after completing a wild turkey hunting safety and instructional seminar. A labor dispute between the Ontario government and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (O.P.S.E.U) that began March 13 has effectively shut down the Ministry-based licencing systems.
However, non-ministry satellite licence issuers remain open for business and can issue turkey licences to valid Outdoors Card holders who can prove they have completed the mandatory Wild Turkey Seminar. As well, turkey licence issuers have also been supplied with temporary Outdoors Cards that will allow hunters to buy the required licences.
Labor disputes are often difficult. We thank both sides for the foresight and fair-mindedness allowing the hunt to proceed for thousands of outdoors enthusiasts this year, said Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.) spokesman Mark Holmes.
The temporary Outdoors Cards will be issued free of charge for the duration of the turkey season. Fishing licences can be issued without an Outdoors Card. Those seeking an Outdoors Card for turkey hunting should show both an expired Outdoors Card and a previous year’s turkey seal or certificate showing successful completion of the Wild Turkey Seminar.
Revenues generated from turkey and other hunting and fishing licences are dedicated to a special purpose account that specifically funds wildlife management programs in Ontario. Annual revenues from turkey licences are normally in the $300,000 range. As well, turkey hunting helps stimulate economic activity important in many communities across much of southern Ontario and parts of central Ontario. Retails sales, guiding, outfitting, hotels and restaurants all enjoy a boost during the turkey hunting season that, in most areas, runs from April 25 through May 31.