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Natural Resources Minister John Snobelen today announced that the government intends to end the spring bear hunt in Ontario this spring.

The government made the decision to move to end the spring bear hunt because it will not tolerate cubs being orphaned by hunters mistakenly shooting mother bears in the spring.

"Many people have told us that the way the hunt is conducted and the inevitable loss of some cubs is unacceptable," Mr. Snobelen said. "We have reviewed current practices and considered modifications; but none provide assurance that young bears and their mothers would be protected as they emerge from their dens in the spring. Stopping the hunt is the only protection for the animals."

Mr. Snobelen will meet with the Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters Association to consider ways of assisting outfitters who have already invested resources in this year's hunt The hunt would have begun April 15 and run until June 15 in most of the province.

The Minister has directed MNR staff to post a notice of intention on the Environmental Bill of Rights registry decision.

"We realize this action will create problems for some outfitters," Mr. Snobelen said. "We will do whatever is reasonable to address the impact "We are also convinced that there are opportunities to broaden and strengthen economic development in the north through the further development of eco-tounsm. We are looking at a number of options in that area."

The plan to end the spring bear hunt will not reduce other hunting activities, including traditional deer. moose and fail bear. Ontario has one of the largest bear populations in North America, estimated at 75,000 to 100,000.

The government supports a broad range of fishing, hunting and conservation activities as part of the Ontario outdoors experience and heritage/ Mr. Snobelen said. "We continue to pursue ways to enhance fishing and hunting opportunities."