LEWISHAM’S LEADING SCRUTINY COUNCILLOR ALAN HALL HAS WELCOMED THE OVERDUE ADOPTION OF A NEW ANIMAL CHARTER FOR LEWISHAM SAYING:
“The joy and fascination we all derive from pet animals and wildlife brings with it a responsibility on us all – both council and residents in partnership – to care and look after them and the environment in which they should thrive” said councillor Hall, Chair of the Lewisham’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
“It was quite a progressive thing then in 1983 for Lewisham to introduce an Animal Welfare Charter but a review and renewal has been long overdue. I welcome the consultation that preceded its renewal and thank those members of the public who responded.
“Lewisham’s officers and Cabinet member Cllr Rachel Onikosi are commended for their work in bringing it up to date. It does reveal however that the Council needs a tracking mechanism to ensure a timely and regular review of all policies.
“Furthermore, the way our animal welfare officers work in partnership with other organisations to promote animal welfare is exemplary and I have asked them to extend this to signing up other council partners including Lewisham Homes and other Registered Social Landlords in a referral to the Mayor and Cabinet.”
- Highlights of the new charter include:
- Providing greater opportunities for children and young people to learn about looking after animals through a schools engagement programme
- Ensuring greater knowledge of micro-chipping for domestic pets and horses through public engagement campaigns
- Joint working with animal welfare organizations and housing providers to ensure greater responsibility in pet ownership and wildlife concern
The formal referral to Lewisham’s Mayor is here: