Explanatory Memorandum

Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011

2011 CHAPTER 16

29 March 2011

Commentary on Sections

Part 4 - Enforcement

Post-Conviction Powers

Section 33: Disqualification

This section confers a power on the court to disqualify a person from owning, keeping or participating in the keeping of animals and from being party to any arrangements to control or influence the way in which animals are kept. Disqualification may be imposed in relation to animals generally or to one or more kinds of animal. The court can also decide the period which must expire before the person, who is the subject of a disqualification order, may apply to have it lifted. The court can also provide for a suspension of a disqualification order pending appeal and has power to suspend a disqualification order to give the disqualified owner or keeper time to make arrangements for the animal.