Straying animals ‘could cause serious accident’

POLICE are warning land and livestock owners in the Hannahstown area of the dangers of roaming horses which have been blamed for a number of near miss road accidents.

Police say they receive up to three calls a day from worried motorists and are urging drivers to continue to report incidents of animals wandering the road.

In the coming weeks they are write to landowners reminding them of their responsibilities and warning them they could face prosecution under The Roads (NI) Order, Welfare of Animals Act (NI), Animals Order (NI) and the Criminal Damage (NI) Order.

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Inspector Jocelyn Wise said the problems of wandering animals pose a threat not only to the public but to the animals as well.

“At present, police have been receiving up to three reports a day of horses walking onto the main road in the Hannahstown and Upper Springfield Road area,” said Inspector Wise.

“Each of these reports has the potential to result in an accident, which could have detrimental consequences for road users and for the animal.

“To date there have been no fatal collisions, however ongoing incidents of this nature undoubtedly increase the likelihood of accidents.

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“I would urge all land and animal owners to exercise your responsibility in relation to these animals not only to prevent the loss of life but also to avoid prosecution.

“Please ensure that fencing in fields is in a suitable state of repair as to provide a safe and secure environment for any animals it contains.”

Inspector Wise continued: “As you can see, where an accident does occur it can have far reaching implications, in terms of the impact on an individual’s life, the animal’s welfare and financial repercussions for the animal owner.”

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