AIMS backs new livestock worrying legislation
Government has announced new legislation aiming to reduce livestock worrying, with the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) backing the measures.
Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill – a Private Members’ Bill sponsored by Dr Thérèse Coffey MP – the police will be given greater powers to respond to livestock worrying incidents more effectively. Government said that this would make it easier for police to collect evidence and seize and detain dogs to “reduce the risk of further attacks”.
AIMS supported the Bill, but said it would like to see the actions of people included in livestock worrying legislation, not just dogs. The body said: “We would urge all in livestock farming to write to their MPs and ask that they ensure the new proposals are as robust as possible.”
The Bill looks to modernise existing legislation to ensure it remains fit for purpose, including extending the livestock definition and widening locations where enforcement can be taken.
It will also address enforcement challenges, giving police more powers to seize dogs and take evidence samples.
Farming Minister Mark Spencer said: “Livestock worrying has a devastating impact, causing distress to farmers and their animals, as well as the financial implications.
“This Bill will crack down on this issue, widening the scope to protect more farm animals covered by law and giving police more powers to act. We will do all we can to support its swift passage through Parliament.”
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