VICTORIA - The Ministry of Environment has released the first Quarterly Compliance and Enforcement Summary for 2007.

The summary reports on compliance and enforcement actions taken across the entire ministry between Jan. 1 and March 31, 2007. It outlines:

* Seven orders issued to prevent or stop impacts to the environment, human health or safety.
* 45 administrative licensing sanctions taken against individual or commercial hunters or anglers for committing certain offences.
* 286 tickets.
* 14 court convictions.
* $87,877 in fines.

The ministry pursues compliance with environmental laws and regulations through information, verification and enforcement. The goal is to encourage compliance to prevent damage before it occurs, and to apply the appropriate response if individuals or businesses do not comply with environmental standards.

Environment Minister Barry Penner encourages the public to report all poachers and polluters by calling 1-877-952-RAPP (7277), #RAPP (7277) on the TELUS Mobility Network or by visiting the website at: www.rapp.bc.ca

The Quarterly Compliance and Enforcement Summary is available at: www.env.gov.bc.ca/main/prgs/compliancereport.html