Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 Explanatory Notes

Section 45: Inspectors

For the purposes of the Act an “inspector” is a person appointed either by the Department in respect of farmed animals or a council in respect of other animals. A definition of farmed animal has been provided in the Act and the definition can be amended by the Department by subordinate legislation should that be necessary in the future. Councils when appointing inspectors for the purposes of the Act must have regard to any guidance that may be issued by the Department. The Department may also issue a list of approved persons who are considered suitable for appointment as inspectors by councils. Councils must provide the Department with such information as may be required in relation to exercising any powers in the Act.

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