NEW TRAINING SYLLABUS FOR HCAP

A revised training syllabus for the Hunter Competence Assessment Programme (HCAP) is in preparation and will be introduced early in 2012.

The new syllabus allows for a standardisation of training and preparation for assessment under HCAP, and will include a designated number of hours’ attendance at training lectures and workshops. A new Food Safety Module is being added in addition to the existing MCQ and Range Test modules. Training will continue to be provided by the different participating deer organisations, based on the new Deer Alliance syllabus and schedule for delivery of preparatory lectures and workshops. In addition, Deer Alliance HCAP itself will offer training in different locations. Candidates who succeed in the HCAP MCQ will then proceed to the Food Safety Module, which will be based on a half-day seminar at an approved facility, with hands-on veterinarian-supervised carcase inspection and handling including physiological familiarisation, disease recognition and butchery. Candidates having passed the MCQ and participated in the Food Safety Module will then proceed to undertake the Range Test. It is anticipated that following adoption of the new procedures, HCAP-Certified Candidates will be recognised as Trained Persons (“Trained Hunters”) within the meaning of food hygiene safety regulations.

The revised training syllabus will be submitted for approval by all participating Deer Alliance HCAP bodies and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland in December, for implementation early in 2012. Any necessary increase in the HCAP Fee, to take account of new and additional requirements associated with the new Food Safety Module, and the possibility of an inclusive fee, to cover Training on the one hand, and Assessment on the other, will be considered at the same time. It is likely however that different fee structures will apply.