The Minister is empowered, under Section 36(2) of the Wildlife Acts 1976 – 2018, to grant licences to hunt using a mechanically propelled vehicle specifically for ‘Educational, Scientific or Other Purposes’. It is not possible to issue a licence to hunt unprotected animals, such as foxes and rabbits using a mechanically propelled vehicle except for ‘Educational, Scientific or other Purposes’. However you are free to hunt unprotected animals, such as foxes and rabbits, including at night using lamps subject to landowner permission being obtained prior to entering on lands. However no such hunting can be carried out during the day or at night using a mechanically propelled vehicle.
Applications for a Section 36 licence for ‘Educational, Scientific or Other Purposes’ should be made to the Wildlife Licensing Unit at: wildlifelicence@npws.gov.ie
You can download the form here: To Hunt Using a Mechanically Propelled Vehicle for Educational, Scientific or Other Purposes