Dog fighting fine should go up - AD

Raising the minimum fine for dog fighting to Lm2,000 is one of a series of measures proposed by Alternattiva Demokratika to improve animal welfare.

AD yesterday held a consultation meeting with the public on animal welfare.

Other proposals include tackling the problem of strays more effectively by introducing a centralised dog registration system, a ban on the use of animals, particularly exotic animals in circuses, having a legal structure stipulating the maximum number of hours horse-drawn cabs can work, and appointing animal welfare officers who will enforce the law.

AD is also insisting that livestock intended for food production should be given the same welfare protection as other animals. It said particular problem areas in animal welfare were livestock transportation and conditions at slaughterhouses.

It also called for more education campaigns to raise awareness on animal welfare. Comments can be submitted to Simon Galea at: simonmlt@hotmail.com.