To ask the Minister of Finance whether her Department has considered enabling family courts to include pets in non-molestation and occupation orders, in cases involving domestic abuse.

Under the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, a court must have regard to all the circumstances when deciding whether to exercise its discretionary power and make a Non-Molestation Order or Occupation Order.

In reaching that decision, the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 requires a court to take into account the impact of its decision on the health, safety and well-being of the parties and any children involved. That consideration can include issues raised by the applicant regarding their companion animals. Courts can therefore presently consider circumstances regarding pets in situations of domestic abuse and coercive control.