Animal diseases bill approved in Senate

The Animal (Diseases and Importation) (Amendment) Bill 2019 was approved with amendments in the Senate on Tuesday.

The bill, which has 37 clauses and over 70 pages, seeks to protect and promote animal health and to prevent the introduction and spread of animal diseases within TT and from other countries; to facilitate and regulate trade in animals, carcasses, animal products and animal-related items; to establish standards for animal welfare, and for other connected purposes.

The bill was passed after debate during the committee stage over concerns raised by Opposition Senators over the degree of power to be held by an inspector, the penalties which would accrue to owners of pets if they allowed harm to come to animals, particularly from exposure to fireworks, among other matters.

The Senate was then adjourned to Wednesday at 10 am.