To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any conversations he has had with local councils to provide a more joined-up approach to addressing cases of animal cruelty.

My Department, local councils and the PSNI meet regularly to discuss matters of mutual interest relating to the enforcement of animal welfare. Councils and the PSNI are also part the Paws for Thought group, chaired by my Department, which co-ordinates activities to specifically address the trafficking of low welfare pups. This long established cooperation enables the undertaking of joint investigations and enforcement action, when required.

In addition, DAERA fully funds the council delivery of the non-farmed animal welfare enforcement service. Consequently, my officials meet regularly with council officials to discuss financial and administrative arrangements relating to this service.

I welcome this extensive and ongoing information sharing and cooperation between my Department, local councils, and with the other enforcement bodies.