§ Mr. Corbettasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he is satisfied with the effectiveness of current legislation under which bullfighting, either aimed at killing the bull or for exhibition purposes, is illegal in Northern Ireland and with the level of penalties for those convicted of offences.
§ Mr. ButlerYes. Under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 1972 it is an offence to infuriate or terrify any animal, to cause unnecessary suffering to any300W animal by causing, procuring or assisting at the fighting or baiting of the animal, or to promote or permit any public performance which involves causing unnecessary suffering to any animal by fighting or struggling with that animal.
The level of penalties for persons convicted of such offences of cruelty are under review and will shortly be brought into line with those current in the rest of the United Kingdom.