UFU warns proposed Hunting with Dogs Bill risks undermining farm families
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has raised significant concerns over the practical implications of the proposed Hunting with Dogs Bill for farmers, landowners and legitimate pest control.
Giving evidence to the Assembly’s AERA Committee, UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy and policy officer Daniel Toft outlined areas of the Bill which the Union believes could create uncertainty for the farming community, including landowner liability, the scope of exemptions and their practical application.
Mr Cuddy said, “The UFU’s position is based on the practical implications of this legislation for agriculture, and the ability for a landowner to make the choice for themselves. Farmers must retain control over their land, be able to protect their livestock and have access to effective pest control without facing unnecessary legal uncertainty.
As currently drafted, this Bill is fundamentally unworkable. Its provisions could create serious practical and legal difficulties for farmers and landowners, potentially leaving them exposed to uncertainty and potential unintended consequences in the day-to-day management of their land and livestock.”
The UFU also briefed the Committee on its strengthened Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the UFU, Countryside Alliance Ireland and the Northern Ireland Masters of Hounds Association as an alternative approach. The revised agreement strengthens requirements around landowner consent, communication, livestock protection, biosecurity and accountability.
Mr Cuddy continued, “The strengthened MOU puts farmer choice and accountability at its core. It provides clear safeguards for agricultural land and farming operations while ensuring permission remains firmly with the farmer. It supports those who wish to allow this form of pest control on their land, whilst protects those who do not.
“We are asking the Committee to give proper consideration to the practical concerns we have raised and to the strengthened MOU as an alternative way forward.”
