To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what steps his Department is taking to ensure the welfare of exotic animals being held in private residences is being protected.

An exotic animal may be defined as one that is not native to the country in question. This definition covers a wide range of species that are held in private residences, eg goldfish, budgerigars, hamsters etc.

My Departmental officials take responsibility for the welfare of exotic animals in private residences that are listed on the Dangerous Wild Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 2004.

This legislation was introduced primarily as a result of public safety concerns, but also to ensure that dangerous wild animals receive proper care whilst in private ownership. Anyone keeping a dangerous wild animal (DWA) species in Northern Ireland must do so under the terms of a licence granted by the NIEA. Before a licence is granted the applicant must have their premises inspected by a DAERA-appointed vet with relevant expertise. This inspection ensures that the appropriate species-specific conditions are in place before the applicant takes ownership of the dangerous wild animal. Licences must be renewed on an annual basis, and this involves further veterinary annual welfare inspections. Licences are only renewed if the DWA vet is satisfied with individual welfare standards.