Fast tracking Bill on dog control the answer - National

National Leader Bill English says the quickest way to prevent future dog attacks is for Parliament to fast track existing proposed legislation.

Mr English and National MP Paul Hutchison met with John Anderson this morning to discuss how Parliament can act quickly with legislation to prevent future dog attacks. "This family is going through a horrendous experience which other families could avoid in the future if Parliament acts quickly.

"The quickest way to change the law in this area is for the Government to allow the Local Government Law Reform Bill (No 2) to be put at the top of the order paper for debate. National will be proposing this in Parliament today.

"This Bill addresses dangerous breeds, and pit bull terriers in particular, and we will propose amendments to it so that the onus goes back on owners to control their dogs.

"I am appalled to discover there are now 300 dog attacks each year serious enough to put the victim in hospital. "Carolina Anderson's family have gone through a dreadful experience which has highlighted the risks around dogs in public places.

"No one has a right to threaten others. Children must be protected from intimidation from uncontrolled dogs and lazy owners.

"The community is insecure about dogs. It is up to the politicians to listen and act as quickly as we can to assess the problem and change the laws as the public and this family are demanding.

"Parliament hearing the Local Government Law Reform Bill (No 2), rather than reviewing it again at select committee, is the fastest way," Mr English said.

© Scoop Media