Veterinarians urge swift passage of Animal Welfare Act

Colombo, July 22 (Daily Mirror) - The Association of Veterinarians for Humane Management of Animal Population has urged authorities not to further delay the enactment of the Animal Welfare Act, warning that continued delays would prolong the suffering of animals.

Issuing a statement, the association said the Animal Welfare Bill had received Cabinet approval in 2022 and was ready to move forward, but the process was delayed for nearly four years due to objections from certain groups calling for further amendments.

The association noted that the Bill, which has now been gazetted, includes many of the amendments proposed by those groups, and expressed concern over renewed attempts to delay or prevent its passage.

It said the absence of a strong animal welfare law over the past four years had resulted in numerous cases of animals being tortured, abused, and killed, adding that society shares responsibility for the consequences.

“ No bill is perfect. Necessary amendments can be made in the future through the democratic process. However, delaying a law that strengthens animal protection will only extend the suffering of animals,” the association said.

The association called on all parties to support the immediate passage of the Animal Welfare Act, stating that animals have already waited long enough for legal protection.