Hansard

I am really chuffed to speak in support of today’s motion, which recognises the serious harm that is caused by animal cruelty, neglect and illegal breeding. Across Scotland, including in the South Scotland region, which I represent, people care deeply about the welfare of pets, farm animals and wildlife, yet we continue to have cases in which cruelty goes unpunished or sentencing does not reflect the severity of the harm that is caused.

Animal welfare organisations consistently raise concerns about inconsistencies in sentencing, the limitations of cases being dealt with under summary procedure and the lack of specific sentencing guidelines under the Animals and Wildlife (Penalties, Protections and Powers) (Scotland) Act 2020. When penalties are capped or guidance is unclear, justice cannot always be delivered in a way that matches public expectations or the seriousness of a crime. Strengthening sentencing is not about being punitive for its own sake; it is about proportionality, consistency and, above all, better protection for animals and the public. Clearer guidance and greater awareness of existing powers would support more robust and consistent decision making across Scotland’s courts.

That is why calls for improved monitoring of disqualification orders are so important. A national animal offenders register, which would allow agencies to share information more effectively, deserves consideration. If someone has demonstrated that they are a risk to animals, the system must be equipped to prevent reoffending. That is in the interests of animal welfare organisations, police officers, local authorities and, ultimately, the public.

Although today’s motion rightly focuses on the future direction of policy, I also want to highlight the contribution of someone whose commitment to animal welfare has shaped this Parliament for nearly three decades: my friend and colleague Christine Grahame. I feel as though I am at the coo’s tail, though, because everybody has done an excellent job of describing her work.

Christine has served in Parliament since 1999, where she has been one of the most consistent, passionate and influential voices for animal welfare. By leading campaigns, championing reforms and scrutinising legislation with determination, she has made a tangible difference to animals across Scotland. Her work has never been about making short-term headlines; it has been about achieving long-term change founded on compassion and justice. During this parliamentary session, Christine introduced her member’s bill, the Welfare of Dogs (Scotland) Bill, which strengthened protections for animals and built on years of advocacy on issues such as puppy farming, cat and dog welfare, wildlife protection and tougher penalties for cruelty. The issue of puppy trafficking is a shared concern. It was one of the first issues that I addressed when I was elected 10 years ago, because puppies continue to be trafficked through the port of Cairnryan.

Christine has always been generous in providing me with guidance, which has sometimes been very direct and always sound, and supporting me in navigating the complex aspects of parliamentary work. More than once, we have found ourselves speaking at short notice in response to the lodging of motions on challenging issues by Opposition members. In those moments, Christine’s calm and measured approach, sharp thinking and wit have made those tasks much easier.

As we debate how to strengthen sentencing, improve consistency and better protect animals across Scotland, it is only right that we recognise the foundations that have been laid by Christine Grahame. Her contribution over 27 years has changed Scotland for the better and will continue to influence policy long after her time in the Parliament.

I fully support the calls in the motion for clearer sentencing guidance, improved consistency across the justice system and stronger enforcement to prevent repeat offending. When we work together—the Scottish Government, the justice agencies, Police Scotland and the many dedicated animal welfare organisations—we can build a system that offers the strongest possible protection for Scotland’s animals. It is vital that we continue to do so, inspired by the work of Christine Grahame MSP.