Assignment of "Authorised Persons" under the Animals and Birds Act

Mrs Lina Chiam asked the Minister for National Development whether he will consider permitting Inspectors of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to be "authorised persons" for the purposes of investigating cruelty cases under the Animals and Birds Act.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan: The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is already assisting the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) in investigating cases of cruelty against animals. It often provides leads, tip-offs, and shares its findings with AVA which will then formally investigate and take enforcement action under the law against those found guilty of committing an act of animal cruelty.

Such investigations and prosecution require adherence to due legal process and the need to ensure confidence by all parties in the professional impartiality of the agency and its officers concerned. Investigative and enforcement functions therefore are best undertaken by authorised AVA officers.

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