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 37: Destruction of animals involved in fighting offences

This section allows the court to order the destruction of fighting animals, otherwise than in the interests of the animal, where there has been a conviction for a fighting offence. This power is wider than that accorded in section 36, on the basis that there may be circumstances in which it is appropriate to order the destruction of an animal otherwise than in its own interests, for example, if the animal is considered to be a danger to public safety.