Luxembourg's potential decision to lower the protection status of wolves, as proposed by the EU Commission, has sparked controversy, with environmental groups and political parties raising concerns over biodiversity and flawed environmental policies.
Although wolves are currently a protected animal species in Luxembourg, the status might soon be changed, according to Agriculture Minister Martine Hansen, who spoke to reporters from Radio 100,7 after an EU Council meeting on Monday.
A respective proposition from the EU Commission is to be approved, she further revealed in conversation with Tageblatt reporters, a move which would be in solidarity with countries where wolves represent a veritable problem.
Minister Hansen assured that Luxembourg's national laws are clear and transparent, which is why not much would change in the Grand Duchy since the presence of wolves has not caused any problems in the past.
Nevertheless, the Pirate Party has already issued a press release (LUX) to voice their opposition to the decision to lower the protection status. Citing the negative impact on biodiversity that the near eradication of wolves in Western Europe has had, the party believes that their return might help to strengthen the resilience of forests.
Furthermore, they believe this decision to be another example of flawed environmental action. "If it's a nuisance, it needs to go", they criticise in their statement.
The Ecological Movement and Nature-and-Environment, two non-profits, have organised a protest outside of the Environment Ministry on Tuesday morning to demand that wolves retain the highest-possible protection status.
