skeptik
Member
I'm sure you're all aware of recent posts condeming various organisations for their apparent callous attitude towards equine welfare.
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 has been introduced to protect animals from suffering neglect and steps can be taken without attendance from a representative of an animal charity.
Because of the way the act is worded, reference is made to the term 'Inspector' and I think it important to note that this is not reference to a RSPCA inspector but, "persons appointed by local authorities, or, by the Secretary of State in England, or the National Assembly in Wales. In practice this can mean a local authority employee with responsibility for animal welfare, or an Animal Health (formerly State Veterinary Service) Officer."
The procedure for enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act is detailed in non-legal jargon here; Animal Welfare Act 2006 - Enforcement
While a local authority may have a working agreement with a particular animal welfare organisation, there is nothing in the act which states any particular welfare group should attend.
Therefore, if welfare group 'A' state "We know about the situation, bet we'll come out in 48 hours", there is no reason why welfare group 'B' cannot be summoned if they are willing and able to deal sooner.
With regard to prosecution proceedings, as this act is a common informers Act, anyone can institute proceedings.
I hope this helps to clarify the situation, although it would be nice to think that these situations would never arise in the future.
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 has been introduced to protect animals from suffering neglect and steps can be taken without attendance from a representative of an animal charity.
Because of the way the act is worded, reference is made to the term 'Inspector' and I think it important to note that this is not reference to a RSPCA inspector but, "persons appointed by local authorities, or, by the Secretary of State in England, or the National Assembly in Wales. In practice this can mean a local authority employee with responsibility for animal welfare, or an Animal Health (formerly State Veterinary Service) Officer."
The procedure for enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act is detailed in non-legal jargon here; Animal Welfare Act 2006 - Enforcement
While a local authority may have a working agreement with a particular animal welfare organisation, there is nothing in the act which states any particular welfare group should attend.
Therefore, if welfare group 'A' state "We know about the situation, bet we'll come out in 48 hours", there is no reason why welfare group 'B' cannot be summoned if they are willing and able to deal sooner.
With regard to prosecution proceedings, as this act is a common informers Act, anyone can institute proceedings.
I hope this helps to clarify the situation, although it would be nice to think that these situations would never arise in the future.