AQW 31036/22-27
Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry
Tabled Date: 12/09/2025
Answered On Date: 17/09/2025
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the number of livestock worrying incidents recorded, in each of the last three years; and (ii) what measures are in place to support farmers affected.
Answer:
Councils are responsible under The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 (the Order) for investigating incidents of livestock worrying. The Department collates this data from all 11 councils and publishes on our website. Table A sets out the number of recorded livestock worrying incidents for each of the last three years up to March 2025. I take the matter of livestock worrying very seriously and my Department continues to remind dog owners of the need to keep their dogs under control around livestock. Farmers are also encouraged to report all incidences of livestock worrying to their local council dog wardens for investigation. Additionally, my Department has produced specific guidance on the issue which is available on the DAERA website. Table A: Number of incidents of livestock worrying recorded in last three years Year | Number of incidents of livestock worrying recorded by councils | April 24 – March 25 | 115 | April 23 – March 24 | 147 | April 22 – March 23 | 122 |
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