Alliance Calls For Ban Of Hunting Wild Mammals With Dogs

Alliance MLA John Blair has reintroduced a Private Member's Bill aimed at banning the hunting of wild mammals with dogs in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Blair expressed concerns that the opportunity to end this practice could be lost if the Bill fails again. He previously attempted to introduce similar legislation in the previous Assembly mandate but faced opposition from Sinn Féin and most DUP MLAs.

The proposed Bill would bring Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the United Kingdom, where hunting wild mammals with dogs is already illegal.

"It is truly shocking we are in 2024 and still have no ban on hunting wild mammals with dogs, despite Alliance's previous attempts to do so," said Mr Blair, the party's Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson. "We came incredibly close to seeing this legislation become a reality a few years ago, with it only falling because Sinn Féin as a party and a number of DUP votes individually worked together to kill it. I am hoping this time round, we can give a voice to the majority of people who remain opposed to hunting wild mammals with dogs and show Northern Ireland does not condone it whatsoever. It is crucial this is not allowed to fail again.

"This consultation gives people an opportunity to make those voices heard and put on record their views in order to send a clear message.

"Animal welfare is a high priority for Alliance, and I encourage everyone to participate, so we can bring our legislation into line with the rest of the UK and outlaw this barbaric practice once and for all."

Complete the consultation here.