Swann Welcomes Movement on ‘Lucy’s Law’ but Warns Cross-Border Loophole Remains a Risk

Robin Swann MP has welcomed a commitment from the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir MLA, to finally introduce a ban on the third-party sale of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland.

In a written response to Mr Swann’s concerns regarding animal welfare, the Minister confirmed his intention to legislate for a local version of ‘Lucy’s Law’. This would require all sellers to be registered with their local council, breed the animals themselves, and complete sales at their own registered address.

However, while welcoming this progress, Mr Swann has raised serious concerns that a significant cross-jurisdictional loophole remains. Under current regulations, puppies bred in Northern Ireland can still be transported and sold in England by third parties, provided the seller holds a breeding licence for premises in Northern Ireland.

Commenting on the Minister’s response, Mr Swann said:

“The Minister’s confirmation that Northern Ireland will finally move to ban the third-party sale of puppies and kittens is a very welcome step. The lack of a local ‘Lucy’s Law’ has left us out of step with the rest of the UK and provided a cover for improper breeding practices.

“I remain, however, deeply concerned by the ‘grey area’ that exists when animals leave our Northern Ireland. The Minister has made that the proposed legislation will not extend to animals once they are outside Northern Ireland. This means that high-volume breeding for onward sale in England remains a viable, legal route for those looking to circumvent this new law.

“While I appreciate the Minister’s focus on local registration, we need a more robust, joined-up approach with authorities in Great Britain to ensure that Northern Ireland-bred puppies aren't being used to bypass welfare standards elsewhere.

“I look forward to the upcoming report from the Expert Advisory Group in April. I will continue to press the Department to ensure that our welfare standards are enforceable in practice.”