In regard to the media release dated 11 September 1998 issued by the then Minister for Local Government (Mr Baldwin) in relation to a government 'Policy Statement for discussion' in relation to 'Animal Welfare Legislation for the Northern Territory' issued in May 1995, with a closing date for submissions of 30 June 1995;

And

statements contained in the above media release “The RSPCA’s NT Executive is being kept well informed of the progress of this significant new piece of legislation”:

1. What progress has been made to date in preparation of the Bill for consideration by the Assembly since 11 September 1998.

2. Has the Executive of the NT RSPCA been given reports on that progress.

3. What is the current timetable for that Bill to be presented to the Assembly for debate.

ANSWER

1. The Bill for a new Animal Welfare Act was introduced during the August 1999 sittings of the Legislative Assembly.

2. Yes - there has been ongoing liaison with key members of the RSPCA in the Northern Territory during the development of the Bill.

3. See answer 1 above. The Bill is expected to be debated during the October 1999 sittings of the Assembly.