Alliance rep’s disappointment at failure to back animal welfare legislation
Alliance Councillor Helena Young says she is disappointed by Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s decision not to back legislation aimed at strengthening animal welfare protection.
She was speaking following a decision not to support new legislation for the sale and supply of puppies and kittens, proposed by Alliance DAERA Minister Andrew Muir.
Council’s Sustainability and Environment Committee has approved a response to DAERA regarding a public consultation on proposed new regulations for the sale and supply of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland, stating the Council cannot support the proposed legislation.
The consultation outlines measures aimed at strengthening animal welfare protections by introducing a version of Lucy’s Law and a registration system that will improve traceability and transparency, enabling the public to identify the source and origin of a puppy or kitten.
Cllr Young said: ‘’It’s evident that Northern Ireland is falling behind the rest of the United Kingdom, which has already made progress in banning the large-scale breeding of these animals through the introduction of Lucy’s Law, ensuring they are no longer regarded as mere commodities.
“Minister Muir has launched this consultation in an effort to introduce new legislation to set a higher standard for animal welfare and align Northern Ireland with the rest of the UK.
“These breeding facilities inflict unimaginable cruelty on animals in appalling conditions, and families and individuals acquire these puppies and kittens under the mistaken belief that they are well-bred and healthy. It is imperative to finally end these unethical breeding operations that prioritise profit over animal welfare.
“We fully support Minister Muir’s consultation to tackle this issue and enhance animal rights.’’