Andrew Muir reaffirms commitment to introduce 'Lucy's Law'

Equivalent legislation is already in place in England, meaning anyone wishing to get a new puppy or kitten must buy direct from a breeder or consider adopting from a rescue centre instead.

The law is named after Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was rescued from a puppy farm where she was subjected to terrible conditions.

On Tuesday, DUP MLA, Deborah Erskine, asked Minister for Agriculture, Andrew Muir, to outline how his Department will address illegal puppy farming and breeding.

Dup MLA, Deborah Erskine. (Image: Impartial Reporter)

Minister Muir said that while Northern Ireland already has “robust legislation” regarding breeding establishments, he hopes to further strengthen this through introducing a version of Lucy’s Law.

“To combat the illegal breeding and trafficking of low welfare pups, my department supports the Council and other statutory bodies under the ‘Paws for Thought’ initiative,” he said.

“This initiative comprises representatives from the PSNI, HMRC, local councils, the Belfast Harbour Police, and animal welfare enforcement teams.

“My department continues to work with local council and other staff bodies to promote messages and communications that urge the public to secure dogs from reputable and licensed breeders.

“I am aware that dog breeding is an area where stakeholders express concern, and more action will be required in the time ahead.

“Therefore I am keen to explore their views on what action they feel is needed, as well as discussing my intention to introduce a version of Lucy’s Law to Northern Ireland.”

Mrs. Erskine said that alleged puppy farming and breeding is a “very hot topic” in Fermanagh and South Tyrone and asked the Minister to ensure that are “no loopholes” in any potential legislation.

Minister Muir responded: “When we are designing legislation around animal welfare, we need to be very conscious of the issues you have outlined, and people’s ability to navigate and create loopholes around it all.

“In terms of Lucy’s Law, I am conscious that Northern Ireland is the only part of the United Kingdom which is yet to introduce legislation that will regulate the third-party sale of puppies and kittens.

“It remains my intention to deliver a version of Lucy’s Law in Northern Ireland within the lifetime of this Assembly.

“My officials are developing options for my consideration and I will decide on the most appropriate option. Any proposals will be subject to public consultation.

“I am also keen to engage with the animal welfare sector, and I am keen to facilitate discussions with key stakeholders in the time ahead in terms of the best course of action in implementing Lucy’s Law.”