§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what inspection his Department has made of private residences within Omagh district council area where big cats, snakes and wild animals are in captivity; and if he will make a statement. [10076]
§ Mr. MossUnder the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 1972, the Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland has inspected two private residences in the Omagh district council area where wild animals are kept. The inspections have confirmed that the primary needs of the animals are being well catered for and the Department is continuing to monitor the situation.
§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will seek to extend the provisions of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 to Northern Ireland. [10074]
§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what advice he has received from the Royal Ulster Constabulary about the captivity and security of big cats, snakes and other wild animals maintained in private residences within Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [10075]
§ Mr. MossThe Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland has recently received correspondence from the Royal Ulster Constabulary calling for the introduction of legislation equivalent to the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. The question of the need for new legislation is under review.