Sheep sector welcomes improved police powers to tackle dog attacks

The sheep sector has welcomed steps taken toward tougher punishments for the crime of livestock worrying by dogs.

Following updated legislation, the police will now be given greater powers to respond to dog attacks on sheep and cattle more effectively.

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill's aim is to make it easier for them to collect evidence and, in the most serious cases, seize and detain dogs.

Responding to it, the National Sheep Association (NSA) said sheep worrying by dogs had a devastating impact on livestock across the country.

The body said it was 'fantastic news' that the updated Bill had been approved as it would help increase powers to protect livestock.