What is the status of the new animal protection legislation?

Government announced last April that they were reviewing the animal health and protection legislation with the intent of introducing a new Animal Health and Protection Act, yet we have not been given any updates as to when this legislation will be brought forward to the House of Assembly, says Roland Butler, MHA for the District of Port de Grave.

While government continues its review of animal protection legislation in the province, there have been numerous reports of animal neglect, abuse and cruelty. The current punishment and fines outlined in the Act are not looked upon as being sufficient to stop this type of behaviour by irresponsible pet owners and stronger deterrents are needed to be included in new legislation.

“While there have been numerous examples of animal abuse and neglect reported over the past couple of years that helped spark a legislative review, recent cases have demonstrated the need to bring forward updated legislation in a timely fashion,” said Mr. Butler. “We were expecting new legislation in the fall sitting of the House of Assembly, but it never came forward. I can only encourage the minister to look at the necessity that exists in the province to protect animals and bring forward the necessary legislation to achieve these goals when the House of Assembly opens in the coming weeks.”

Butler notes that while the legislative review is ongoing, delays are taking place with normal protection processes that should be occurring. One woman that contacted the Official Opposition office has been requesting special constable status that would permit her to intervene and take animals out of unsafe and unsuitable living environments. She has been told that no such authority would be given until the legislative review is completed.

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