Summary of the Hawk Board Minutes – 22 January 2026
The meeting opened at 14:00, with attendees and apologies recorded.
General Reports
Previous minutes were approved with no matters arising.
Chair’s report covered government welfare reforms, uncertainty around trail‑hunting exemptions, avian influenza updates, and the failed attempt to downlist the peregrine falcon under CITES.
Finance
Accounts remain healthy; recent PayPal donation confirmed online system functionality.
Year‑end accounting is underway.
Election Planning
Key election dates set from April to October 2026, including nomination deadlines, voting periods, and result announcements.
Infrared‑marked ballot papers and independent verification planned.
CASC Membership
Recommendation to remain in CASC despite some limitations, due to legislative value and involvement in welfare regulation discussions.
Animal Welfare & Rehoming
Case discussed where lack of documentation led to unnecessary euthanasia
Members concerned about inconsistent enforcement by agencies (APHA, councils, Border Force).
Agreed to gather data and produce clearer guidance to support humane outcomes.
Wildlife Crime
Concerns raised about misinterpretation of peregrine population data.
Breeders report heavy‑handed enforcement for minor paperwork errors.
Support for civil sanctions over criminal prosecution, with caution about misuse.