Animal abusers to have names publicized, fines levied

[TAIWANT2]

Taipei, Nov. 22 (CNA) The Executive Yuan passed draft amendments to the Animal Protection Act Thursday, adding regulations stipulating that animal abusers may have their names, titles, and photos publicized and will be subject to fines, an official said.

Under the draft amendments, those who torture, maim, or cause the disability or deaths of animals, deliberately kill cats, dogs, or any other animal that the government prohibits people from killing, or sells the bodies of animals killed, will be fined between NT$100,000 (US$3,083) and NT$500,000 and their names, titles or photos may be publicized.

An official of the Cabinet-level Council of Agriculture said fines in more serious crimes or in case of recidivism in two years will be between NT$200,000 and NT$1 million.

The amendments and more serious punishments are aimed at cracking down on an increasing number of abuse cases, the official said, adding that the amendments give local authorities the right to save animals from serious torture and provide them with first aid and care.

The draft amendments also stipulate that anyone acting without the permission of local authorities are banned from catching animals with methods involving poisonous gas, electricity, anaesthetic gun, or corrosive substances.

The amendments also require local governments to provide proper public space for use by pet owners, the official said.

The draft amendments will soon be referred to the Legislative Yuan for approval.