Lesley Griffiths, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
I am committed to ensuring high standards of welfare of all animals kept in Wales, at all stages of their life. Animals should be protected from pain, injury, fear and distress.
In March this year, RSPCA Cymru produced a briefing document making their case for the introduction of an Animal Offender Register in Wales and offering to lead on the establishment of a Task and Finish Group.
I believe the establishment of such a register is worthy of further investigation. Last month, I wrote to all Assembly Members to inform them I endorsed RSPCA Cymru’s proposal and had asked them to establish a Task and Finish Group to consider the establishment of an Animal Offender Register. RSPCA Cymru has agreed to do so and will also be providing secretariat support.
I have agreed the Terms of Reference for the Group, including the key outputs and timeline. Officials will now work with RSPCA Cymru to determine membership. The work of the Task and Finish Group will begin as soon as possible, with the first formal meeting to be held in September. Interim findings will be presented to me by 31 March 2018.