To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the status of wild animal circuses in Northern Ireland in comparison to (a) the UK; and (b) Ireland; and (ii) whether he is minded to support a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses.

I am aware that wild animals performing in circuses has been banned in England, Scotland and Wales; and in the Republic of Ireland. There are no circuses based here and the circuses which have travelled to Northern Ireland in recent years have not used any wild animals in their performances.

I support the introduction of a ban here. However, during the last active season, there were no circus performances using wild animals in Northern Ireland. This, coupled with Departmental pressures arising from the need to prepare for the end of the transition period, means that it is unlikely that any legislation to ban wild animals in circuses will be introduced in the near future. My Department will progress this matter when resources permit.