Dogs to be banned from council buildings in Mid and East Antrim area
Dogs – with the exception of assistance dogs – look set to be banned from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s buildings after a proposed new policy was approved by councillors.
The council’s Neighbourhoods and Communities Committee has agreed to a policy over animals in council buildings following requests to bring dogs, birds and reptiles into premises.
A committee report explained the policy has been developed to support the local authority’s “commitment to providing an inclusive, safe and welcoming environment for all residents, visitors and employees”.
However, it may permit the return of special events such as dog shows at council venues.
The report stated an “increasing number of customers have attended council premises accompanied by dogs and other animals”.
“There has also been a growing number of requests from customers seeking permission to bring animals including dogs, birds and reptiles into council venues and surrounding areas for weddings, indoor events and other activities,” it said.
The council has acknowledged while the presence of animals can benefit some individuals, there are concerns over fouling, aggressive behaviour, allergies and potential disruption to services.
The policy will ensure a “consistent, transparent and proportionate approach at all council services, remove ambiguity over which animals would be permitted”, increase staff awareness and provide support to managers and employees in “considering reasonable adjustments when an employee requires the use of an assistance dog because of a disability”, the report noted.
Ulster Unionist Councillor Jackson Minford asked if there would be an exemption for petting farms. An officer indicated there are additional controls for petting farms.
DUP Alderman Billy Ashe MBE commented: “In the past, dog shows featured heavily in community centres. We lost that during Covid.”