Gildernew meets kennel club

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has met representatives of the Kennel Club as part of the review of Dangerous Dogs legislation.

Speaking after the meeting the Minister said: “I have met members of the kennel Club to discuss Dangerous Dogs legislation. This is a further important step as part of the review of dangerous dogs and dog fighting legislation which I announced in the Assembly on 20 November 2007.”  

As part of the review, the Minister has already held very constructive meetings with the PSNI and local Councils, and arrangements are in hand for further meetings with animal welfare representatives.

“The meeting gave me the opportunity to hear at first hand the views of the Kennel Club. Given its position as secretariat to a group in Britain which has been studying the issue of dog control legislation, they have much to add to the review. A number of issues were raised at the meeting, which I will now consider fully as part of my review.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Under the Dogs (NI) Order 1983, as amended by the Dangerous Dogs (NI) Order 1991, it is an offence to be in possession of certain breeds of dog designated as dangerous, including the pit bull terrier.  Enforcement of legislation relating to dangerous dogs is the responsibility of local Councils in Northern Ireland.  
2. Dog fighting is also illegal and is regulated under separate and discreet legislation, namely the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972.  PSNI is responsible for enforcement of this issue.
3. The Minister announced a review of dangerous dogs and dog fighting in a statement to the Assembly on 20 November 2007. This review is currently underway and meetings have taken place with PSNI, local Councils and welfare groups as part of the considerations. A working group has also been formed to establish a Memorandum of Understanding between PSNI and District Councils.
4. The Kennel Club acts as Secretariat for the Dangerous Dogs Act Study Group which comprises GB organisations representing animal welfare, local authorities, the Metropolitan Police and veterinary professionals.
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