What would this proposed change mean?

Under current legislation, animals seized on welfare grounds cannot be rehomed until the conclusion of any criminal case involving their owner. This can take months or even years, forcing animals to endure extended stays in third-party kennels. This not only affects their welfare but also results in significant public costs to DAERA, local councils, and the PSNI, which must fund the kenneling of these animals.

A legislative change to allow animals to be rehomed after 21 days would dramatically improve this situation. Scotland implemented such a change in 2020, enabling the Scottish SPCA to rehome animals sooner and improve their welfare. This change has delivered several benefits:

  • Reduced time in kennels: Animals spend less time in stressful, temporary accommodations while waiting for a case to be resolved.
  • Public cost savings: The financial burden of long-term kenneling on public agencies is eased. For example, before the change, the Scottish SPCA spent over £2.1 million on care for animals awaiting legal outcomes between 2016-2020.
  • Better rehoming outcomes: Animals can move to welfare establishments sooner, where their rehabilitation and welfare needs are prioritised, speeding up their journey to a permanent home.

Adopting a similar approach in Northern Ireland would represent a major step forward for animal welfare and public efficiency.