AQW 24829/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 22/10/2021
Answered On Date: 15/11/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) who polices breaches of rules on dog breeding and any animal cruelty infringements that arise from them; and (ii) whether he plans to review legislation on dog breeding and associated animal welfare.

Answer:

Local councils are responsible for enforcing breaches of the rules on dog breeding and the welfare of companion animals, including dogs. My Department funds the enforcement activities carried out by councils and has responsibility for the legislation that governs dog breeding and animal welfare.

I am satisfied that the legislation in place already affords substantial protections to dogs at the time of breeding. I am, however, committed to ensuring that Northern Ireland law provides all necessary protections to animals in breeding establishments. To that end, I have instructed my officials to carry out a comprehensive review of the legislation governing animal’s welfare and establishments, including breeding establishments. While this review has had to be paused given the Department’s need to focus on its response to EU exit and the coronavirus pandemic, it will recommence as soon as resource permits.

My Department continues to work with councils and other agencies through the multi-agency ‘Paws For Thought’ Group it has established to address illegal dog breeding. This Group includes representatives the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Harbour Police, local councils and the two main ferry companies.