Speaking after the meeting the Minister said: “This is the second time I have met NICAWC, which includes representatives of key welfare stakeholders here and in Britain, including The Blue Cross and the USPCA. The meeting gave me an opportunity to again highlight that new animal welfare legislation remains one of my key ministerial priorities. I was also able to outline some initial thoughts on what the new legislation may contain.”
The Minister added: “During the meeting, NICAWC members welcomed the fact that I expect to be in a position shortly after the summer recess, to seek Executive approval to bring forward a new comprehensive Animal Welfare Bill, which will reflect on the concerns of the many stakeholders I have heard from during my review.”
Notes to Editors:
1. The Minister also met representatives from the Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Committee (NICAWC) on 13 May 2008.
2. Animal welfare is currently governed by the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 1972. Part I of the legislation provides for the welfare of livestock. Part II of the Act deals with the licensing of pet shops, animal boarding, riding and zoological establishments. Part III of the Act covers the protection of all animals and makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering or to be cruel to animals. It is also an offence if the owner of an animal fails to exercise reasonable care and supervision so as to prevent unnecessary suffering to an animal.
3. New legislation would seek to update the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972.
4. In addition, the Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations (NI) 2000, as amended, sets out minimum standards for all farmed animals and provides a framework for species-specific standards. This legislation requires that owners and keepers of farm animals must take all reasonable steps to ensure the welfare of their animals, and to ensure that they are not caused any unnecessary pain, suffering, injury or distress.
5. The Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Committee is chaired by Mr Steve Goody of the Blue Cross and also includes representative of the USPCA, NI Animal Welfare Federation, Assisi Animal Shelter, Cats Protection, the Dogs Trust and other welfare organisations based in Northern Ireland.
6. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
