IN a move to regulate the ownership of XL Bully dogs, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir has announced that beyond January 1, 2025, it will be illegal to own one without an exemption certificate.

This new measure aims to enhance public safety by ensuring all such dogs meet stringent safety requirements.

The issue was raised at Stormont by Ulster Unionist MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone Tom Elliott, soon to be known as Lord Ballinamallard.

Minister Muir explained that after the deadline, any XL Bully dog identified by a dog warden without the necessary exemption certificate will be seized, and the owner could face prosecution.

The court holds the authority to order the euthanisation of any seized XL Bully, even in instances where Fermanagh and Omagh District Council may decide not to prosecute the owner.

However, there is a provision for owners to avoid this outcome. If the court is convinced that the dog does not pose a danger to the public, it may issue a 'contingent destruction order.' This order allows the dog to be exempt from the ban, provided certain conditions are met.

Owners will have a two-month window to comply with these exemption conditions.

If they successfully demonstrate compliance within this period, the council is mandated to issue a certificate of exemption and a license for the dog.

Failure to meet these conditions will result in the euthanisation of the dog.