AM Lesley Griffiths believes Welsh Government can make Wales a safer place for children, through exploring further restrictions on dog ownership.
The Assembly Member for Wrexham has previously sought advice from Welsh Government constitutional experts on how Welsh legislation can be used to place further restrictions upon dangerous dogs.
Now Environment Minister, John Griffiths has announced that he wants to pursue new control dangerous dogs using new Welsh legislation.
Speaking at a plenary debate about dangerous the Environment Minister has said the Welsh Government was looking into ways new legislation could be used to ‘prevent injury to people and children’:
The Welsh Government will consult on plans for compulsory microchipping in 2012. This also include extending requirements for keeping dogs under control within private premises and ensuring all animals are treated appropriately whatever their breed .
Commenting on the proposals AM Griffiths said:
“I have long argued that the (UK) 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act does not go far enough. At present this provides a safety net whereby already dangerous dogs can be destroyed, but I believe this is currently far too reactive, only kicking in once harm has been done.
“We should be looking toward a more proactive approach which encourages responsible ownership through weaving socialisation of the animal, acceptable behaviour and responsible handling into the fabric of dog ownership.
“I welcome the fact the Welsh Government is looking at ways in which it can use new legislation to promote responsible dog ownership and hold irresponsible owners and breeders to account.
“This will lead to safer communities in Wales and prevent harm to children and adults in future. “
The Welsh Government will be meeting with interested groups and parties over the next nine months to take forward this work and is looking to introduce Welsh bill on the matter as soon as possible.
