Question reference: S6O-02163
- Date lodged: 19 April 2023
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Current status: Answered by Lorna Slater on 27 April 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to raise awareness of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, in light of recent reported incidences of sheep worrying.
Answer
Lambing and calving are now underway in many parts of Scotland and it is troubling to see reports on social media of irresponsible behaviour by dog owners. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021 has been in force for over a year and provides Police Scotland and the courts with greater powers to deal with those who allow their dogs to worry, attack or kill livestock in Scotland’s countryside.
We want everyone, including dog owners, to enjoy their right to access Scotland’s stunning countryside and landscapes responsibly. I would encourage people to familiarise and remind themselves of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and to exercise caution and vigilance when in and around farms and fields with livestock to help prevent livestock worrying incidents.