LEDUC, Canada -- Environment Canada has laid charges against Peter William Francis for allegedly removing geese from a golf course in Leduc without a permit.

The accused has been charged under Section 6(b) of the Migratory Birds Regulations for allegedly having in his possession a live migratory bird without a permit. The Migratory Birds Act and its complementary Regulations ensure the conservation of migratory bird populations by regulating potentially harmful human activities. A permit must be issued for all activities affecting migratory birds, with some exceptions. Environment Canada has laid charges in this case because the best interests of the geese and all concerned citizens were not taken into consideration.

A date for first appearance in Leduc Provincial Court has been set for October 27, 2005.

Offences are punishable on summary conviction for an individual by a fine not exceeding $300,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both.

The charges result from an investigation by Environment Canada.

For further information: Drew Mahaffey, Wildlife Officer - AB, Environment Canada, Wildlife Enforcement, (780) 951-8891, www.ec.gc.ca