Fireworks in Scotland: consultation

Part Four: Animal Welfare

Legislation governing animal welfare is devolved to the Scottish Parliament. The Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 protects and promotes the welfare of animals, and created a number of criminal offences to help protect animals from mistreatment. These offences cover a range of animal welfare issues, some of which carry a maximum penalty of up to 12 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20,000.

These penalties can be applied to the offence of causing "unnecessary suffering" to an animal. This offence may be committed by anyone who knowingly causes unnecessary suffering to an animal, by either doing or not doing something, whether they are the keeper/owner of the animal or not.

Question 10. Do you think that there should be more controls to make sure animals are not caused unnecessary suffering because of the use of fireworks?

• Yes (please tell us what controls you would like to see in place)
• No (please tell us why you do not feel more controls are needed).

Local Examples of Practice. We would like to hear any examples of how you or your community acts to reduce the impact of fireworks on animals.