Terry Mills MLA

Shadow Minister for;
Police, Fire & Emergency Services
Education & Training
Territory/Federal Relations
Climate Change
Asian Relations

Release date: 08 March 2010

 

DOG ATTACKS SHOULD PROMPT SWIFT ACTION

Reports of dog attacks in the remote community of Maningrida should be dealt with immediately and without hand-wringing by either the local shire and Henderson Government.

Opposition Leader Terry Mills said while dog-related issues are a matter for local Government, in this case the West Arnhem Shire, the Territory Government should play a role if a resolution isn’t found in a timely manner.

“It’s wholly unacceptable that people are being set upon by packs of dogs,” Mr Mills said.

“Public safety should be the only issue at hand here, and sensitivities about the impact of the dogs and their owners in Maningrida should be secondary.

“If she hasn’t already, Local Government Minister Malarndirri McCarthy should be making immediate contact with West Arnhem Shire to ensure steps are taken to remove this threat from the streets.

“If nothing is done within the next few days, it follows that the Territory Government should intervene – either through the agency of the police or Parks and Wildlife rangers.

“Dogs that are involved in these attacks should be put down immediately.

“There is no room for squeamishness when people are being attacked by dogs that are out of control.”


Further comment: Terry Mills 0418 833 594