New Bill protects rangers and victims of dog attacks – Canberra
Posted on December 10, 2009 by by valerirojas
The ACT government will be introducing a new Bill which will protect Rangers and victims of dog attacks . Chief Minister and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services Jon Stanhope said today.
“The Domestic Animals Amendment Bill 2009 aims to help victims of dog attacks or harassment to seek compensation, and also broadens the protection afforded to the Rangers and their families,” Mr Stanhope said.
“Generally the majority of owners of offending dogs involved in attacks willingly provide their details to other parties. However, a small minority of dog owners refuse to do so, thwarting the ability of victims to pursue compensation for their injuries or loss.”
Mr Stanhope said the proposed changes would enable Domestic Animal Services to facilitate the sharing of alleged offenders’ details with victims – “something which has proved to be difficult in the past”.
The new Bill is also design to provide better protection to Rangers. Mr Stanhope said the impoundment of a dog can be an emotive issue, and Rangers have been subjected to an increasing number of threats as they carry out their duties.
