By S. Param
The recent call by a gathering of agitated animal lovers to the government, to set up a neutral body to look into the enforcement of animal cruelties is gaining momentum among the public nationwide.
It’s understandable why animal lovers are upset and furious.The failure cum delay and somewhat reluctance of the enforcement agency for animal cruelties – the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) to carry out their duties as specified by the relevant law has raised many questions on its role as the legal guardian of the animals in the country.
Having said that, it’s also paramount to understand the role of the local authorities, especially the unit involved in the managing of strays. Local councils are duty bound to ensure that the proliferation of unwanted stray animals are kept in check to prevent incidents or outbreaks of zoonotic diseases that can pose a danger to the public.
However due to the lack and poor understanding and appreciation on the subject of animal welfare and the relevant Animal Act, local council staff especially those in the stray management unit are breaching the legal SOPs with regards to handling strays.
In view of these developments, there is a need to educate the local councils stray management manpower to create the necessary awareness with regards to animal welfare and the relevant Animal Act.
In the meantime the government should seriously consider the appeal by animal lovers to set up a neutral Animal Welfare Enforcement Board.
The DVS, being a government agency, will find it complicating and conflicting to prosecute another government agency, in this case the local council staff for serious breach of the Animal Act.
As such it’s advisable to look into setting up a neutral animal welfare board. The members of this board among others, should include animal welfare ngo reps,police,media and others.
It is also timely for the nation to consider setting up a National Animal Welfare Fund (NAWF)to ensure funding for the activities of animal welfare programs by the govt agencies and animal welfare NGOs may proceed without any financial hitch esp the Trap,Neuter, Vaccine and Release program.
The government should consider special allocations during its annual budget proposal to this NAWF.
Remember the quality and greatness of humans is reflected in the wellbeing and welfare of the animals living in our midst.
===================
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Ipoh Echo
