Hunting supporters say ban leaves dog owners at risk of prosecution
Summary
A bill is being voted on in Northern Ireland to ban hunting wild animals with dogs, a practice still allowed only there in the UK. Supporters of hunting warn that the ban could lead to many dog owners being prosecuted for their dogs chasing wild animals. The bill’s backers say it will modernize Northern Ireland’s laws like in the rest of the UK.Key Facts
- The bill aims to ban hunting wild animals with dogs in Northern Ireland.
- Northern Ireland is currently the only UK region where hunting with dogs is legal.
- The bill is introduced by John Blair from the Alliance Party.
- The Countryside Alliance Ireland calls the bill "misguided and divisive."
- Hunting supporters fear everyday dog owners could be prosecuted if their dogs chase wild animals.
- Similar hunting bans have existed in Scotland for over 20 years without prosecutions of dog owners.
- Some hunting supporters say hunting controls pests like foxes and protects farm animals.
- The bill is expected to advance with support from Sinn Féin, Alliance Party, and some DUP members.
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