The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security is warning livestock owners to take immediate control of their animals as authorities move to strengthen enforcement against stray and roaming livestock across Saint Lucia.
“The irresponsible management of animals will not be tolerated,” the department stated in a press release as it highlighted growing concerns over public safety.
Stray cattle, horses, goats, donkeys and sheep continue to pose a serious threat to motorists, pedestrians and communities. Officials say these animals have been linked to road accidents, damage to crops and property and pose an ongoing risk to human life.
The department reminded owners that they have a legal responsibility under the Animals Act to secure and control their livestock at all times. Animals found roaming public roads, highways, communities or trespassing on private property are liable to be seized and impounded by authorised officers.
Authorities say the issue persists despite years of public awareness campaigns, consultations, tagging initiatives and repeated appeals to livestock owners. The continued presence of roaming animals has raised concerns about safety and national order.
Under the law, livestock owners who fail to properly manage their animals may face fines, impoundment costs, prosecution and possible imprisonment. The legislation also allows for the seizure and disposal of animals if owners fail to comply within the required period.
The department has also cautioned against allowing animals to graze along highways, road verges and other public spaces. It noted that land constraints or informal grazing arrangements do not excuse owners from their legal obligations.
In addition, animals tied in unsafe locations, particularly near roadways or pedestrian access routes, may also be impounded if they pose a risk to the public.
Livestock owners are being urged to take corrective action by properly fencing their animals, ensuring adequate supervision, using approved grazing areas responsibly, cooperating with tagging systems and removing animals from public roads and unsafe locations without delay.
The department says it will continue to engage stakeholders and livestock owners to find long-term solutions, but made it clear that enforcement measures will be applied where necessary to protect public safety.
Officials are also appealing to the public for cooperation as efforts continue to safeguard lives, property, agriculture and the safe use of the island’s road network.
Yawn! Yet another warning. *rolleyes*
They still have donkeys on the island?
Does this include the cows tied to the “absolutely no grazing of animals signs”? Asking for a friend