Questions for Discussion

Introduction

1. Name some traditional activities used to survive in the past. Do you follow any of these traditions? Do you know anyone who does?
   
   
2. Why are the rules about the use of wildlife, land and fish changing in rural Newfoundland? Have you noticed these changes yourself? Have the changing rules affected your life?
   
   
3. Describe the methods used by wildlife and fishery officers and the RCMP to crack down on poachers.
   
   
4. How does Watson Lane feel about the crackdown on local resource use? What do you think about his fears?
   
   
5. Ernie Collins worked for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. How does he view the crackdown on poachers? Mr. Collins says many Newfoundlanders think jigging cod for food is a "God-given right." What do you think? Do you agree with Mr. Collins when he says traditions may have to be ended?

The Turkey Lady

1. Why did the town outlaw farm animals? What effect did the new law have on the people who lived there?
   
   
2. Why are the animal laws hard to enforce? Are there animal laws in your community? Do people obey these laws?
   
   
3. Describe how Mrs. King's animals betrayed themselves? Why does Mrs. King say the animal laws replaced her neighbour's sense of humour?
   
   
4. What does the turkey lady mean when she says "We're just a bunch of criminals I guess."

Troy Gilbert

1. Why did Troy jig the fish?
   
   
2. How did the wildlife officers catch him?
   
   
3. What do you think about the punishment Troy was given for his offense?
   
   
4. Troy's mother asks "What did he do that was so wrong?" Her son broke the law, so what does she mean?

Mr. Edwards

1. Mr. Edwards doesn't think of himself as a poacher. Why? What do you think?
   
   
2. Explain Mr. Edward's definition of a poacher.
   
   
3. Do you know people who hunt without a licence? Do you think they are poachers?