SDLP leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood
Said the Foyle MP: “Last month, the SDLP launched a campaign aimed at introducing an all-island register of banned offenders for those who have committed animal cruelty offences.
“There is currently no central register of those convicted of cruelty or maltreatment of animals.
“Its introduction would allow authorities across the island to prevent animals from being placed in the care of abusers.
“At Stormont, the SDLP has been working for months to persuade Ministers to introduce a central register of people convicted of animal cruelty offences.
“An all-island register would allow authorities to intervene and prevent animals from being placed in the care of convicted abusers.
“Those responsible for horrific crimes against helpless animals should face the full force of the law.
“And while I’m satisfied that our laws for addressing abuse are robust, it is deeply worrying that we are currently in a situation where animals can be rehomed or sold to individuals with a history of maltreatment with no checks.
“This heightens the risk of serial offending.
“We have discussed this issue with Minister Charlie McConalogue in the Irish Government, and my colleague Dolores Kelly MLA will be presenting the petition to Stormont on Monday to show how strong the public support for an all-island animal cruelty register is.
“I would encourage everyone to have their say on this important issue, add your name to our petition and help protect vulnerable animals.”
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