The preliminary draft legislation was ready in autumn 2002. Since this legislation envisaged the exportation or destruction of certain types of dogs deemed dangerous, the Government decided to embark on a consultation exercise with all those affected in order to give as many people as possible an opportunity to express views. A Consultation Paper, inviting comments on the draft proposals, was prepared and copies were circulated to a number of bodies/associations who were directly/indirectly affected or had made representations on the subject. Adverts were also placed in the Press inviting the public to obtain copies of the Consultation Paper and make representations.

Up to the end of last year, meetings were held with and/or comments received from the Gibraltar Kennel Club, the Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic, the Gibraltar Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA), the Gibraltar Women’s Association, the Royal Gibraltar Police, the Collector of Customs, the Environmental Agency, two members of the public and the Opposition spokesman on the Environment, the Hon Dr. Reggie Valarino. Most of the written representations received and comments made during these meetings were valid and helpful and have been incorporated into the text of the final draft of the legislation, which had been completed by early this year.

However, the Government is still considering certain representations made during the consultation exercise, which would fundamentally change the way the legislation is implemented. As soon as Ministers have considered these representations and made decisions, the final draft of the Bill will be prepared and the legislation will be enacted as soon after that, as the Government decides to be appropriate.