AQW 13795/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 25/06/2024
Answered On Date: 05/07/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the work he is engaged in to develop and improve licensing systems, regulations and requirements for those operating animal services, including (i) rehoming; (ii) boarding; (iii) walking; (iv) day-care; (v) breeding; and (vi) grooming.

Answer:

I intend to bring forward legislation on a range of important animal welfare issues but I am also mindful of what can be delivered within the resources available to my Department and the time remaining in this mandate.

Nevertheless, I will continue to engage with stakeholder organisations in the time ahead which will assist me in setting the key animal welfare priorities for the remainder of the mandate, and I am happy for this to include exploring the merits of introducing new licensing and regulatory requirements for those facilitating such animal services.