July 1, 2004

Consultation period extended

The North Shore City Council wants public feedback on its dog control rules after changing them to reflect recent law changes.

The council has extended the community consultation period to July 26 to give residents - dog owners and others alike - more time to comment on its amended draft dog control policy and bylaw.

North Shore City's environmental protection team leader, Ian Parker, says the council is sending all dog owners in the city their annual dog registration packs this week. As required by law, the information pack includes copies of the draft policy and bylaw and a submission form inviting comment on the proposals.

Mr Parker says the council wants input from all interested parties on its draft dog policy and bylaw - not just dog owners.

"Whether you like dogs or not, it is important the public expresses its opinion on these questions. Dogs may be man's best friend, but they can also frighten people, and so they need to be managed appropriately and predictably in public places," he says.

The Dog Control Amendment Act 2003, which came into force last December, requires councils to review their dog control policies and bylaws by this September.

Information regarding the draft dog control bylaw and policy, including a draft copy of both and submission forms, is available at www.northshorecity.govt.nz, environmental services office - 521 Lake Rd, Takapuna, all council area offices and libraries or by calling Actionline on 486 8600.

ENDS

© Scoop Media