5. Statement by the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs: Companion Animal Welfare

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:51 pm on 19 June 2018.

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Photo of Vikki Howells Vikki Howells Labour 4:51, 19 June 2018

Thank you, Cabinet Secretary; there's lots to welcome in your very important statement today. First, I'd like to seek some clarification on a number of points. On the possibility of introducing Lucy's law to ban third-party puppy sales, I welcome your comments about discussing options with officials. We know on welfare grounds that there's a growing chorus of recognition that it's a good step, and I'd like to place on record a tribute to the work of Friends of the Animals Wales and its inspirational founder, Eileen Jones, and also to Rhondda Cynon Taf council that was the first council in the UK to pass a motion condemning third-party sales. I know lots of AMs have already asked you questions about this, but how would you engage with third-party expertise that there is out there on this subject in order to take the issue forward?

Secondly, I note your comments about the difficulties in establishing an animal offender register. I wonder if you'd also be able to say a little about tackling dog fighting. You may have seen the recent case with five people being charged for offences relating to dog fighting in Wales and in the east midlands. How else can the Welsh Government help to tackle this abominable cruelty?

And finally, the comments around support at difficult times for owners are also important, and in particular help for people in accessing veterinary services. We've spoken frequently about the rising numbers of people using food banks in Wales. I understand the Trussell Trust now accepts pet food, and the Cabinet Secretary will know the first food bank for pets was, in fact, set up in Wales. Would the Welsh Government also look into feeding companion animals as part of the review?