Oral answer by Ministry of National Development on Reports of Animal Cruelty

Question:

2431. Ms Diana Pang Li Yen: To ask the Minister for National Development (a) in the past three years, how many reports of cruelty to community animals has the Animal and Veterinary Service received, investigated, and referred for prosecution; (b) whether the Ministry assesses that existing enforcement powers and penalties adequately deter such offences; and (c) whether stronger protections, better reporting mechanisms, or restrictions on animal ownership for repeat offenders are being considered to safeguard animal welfare.

Answer:

Over the past three years, NParks received and investigated an average of 75 alleged animal cruelty cases involving community animals each year. Two cases were referred for prosecution during this period.

To ensure that the Animals and Birds Act (ABA) remains effective in deterring animal cruelty and abuse, we are reviewing the ABA to enhance enforcement powers and strengthen the penalty framework for animal welfare offences. This includes reviewing imprisonment terms and disqualification orders for both first-time and repeat offences.