The FIBKA constitution states (my emphasis) -
''In general to undertake all measures to promote the welfare of beekeepers and beekeeping.''
That is not overridden in any way by the commitment to Amm.
For the avoidance of doubt, the relevant section reads:
"3. The objects of the Federation shall be:
a) To support the Beekeepers of Ireland for their mutual benefit.
b) To encourage and participate in research in problems of Apiculture and generally to foster
efficient beekeeping, honey production and marketing.
c) To co-operate with the State and Public Authorities in all matters affecting the industry.
d) To provide helpful educational facilities through inter alia:
i. The publication of An Beachaire (The Irish Beekeeper)
ii. The publication of informative leaflets
iii. The promoting and holding of community lectures
iv. Conducting examinations in the science of apiculture and the art of beekeeping.
e) In general to undertake all measures to promote the welfare of beekeeping and
Beekeepers in Ireland.
f) To promote the conservation of the native dark bee, apis mellifera mellifera."
Perhaps there was no intention to indicate preference by stating the conservation of Amm last, but, it is there. It could also be that others prefer to see it as the main purpose for the organisations existence. Who are we to know?
The thing that I find most disturbing is the animosity shown by its advocates and how they see their rights as being more important than their neighbours right to choose. This is undemocratic (just a short step from dictatorship) and, as such, we should all stand against it no matter what our preferences are.
