October issue of Vetscript
The New Zealand Animal Law Association (NZALA) is a new group of lawyers working together through the legal system to improve the welfare and lives of animals.
The founding members recognised New Zealand lacked a group that focused on using legal expertise to improve animal welfare. The response to advertisements placed in legal publications for expressions of interest has been overwhelming, with over 100 lawyers nationwide, from Whangarei to Timaru, now signed up as members.
To build on this momentum, the New Zealand Animal Law Association (NZALA) was officially made an incorporated society in August 2014. Already, NZALA is enjoying an outstanding level of support across the profession. This includes large commercial law firms, criminal and civil litigators, in-house counsel, members of the profession working for government, and even a Queens Counsel.
It was indeed an honour when the Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG Australia agreed to be the Association’s first honorary patron. When Michael Kirby retired in 2009 he was Australia’s longest serving judge, and is currently head of the Commission of Inquiry on Alleged Human Rights Violations in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. It is a privilege to have Michael Kirby’s commitment and support in our work to improve animal law in New Zealand.
The voluntary commitment from supporters has enabled NZALA to establish a website, design a logo and make plans for an opening event in October. While membership is limited to lawyers and law students, NZALA events will be open to all members of the public with an interest in animal law.
We also offer support and welcome ideas and/or projects from other organisations and professions that promote animal welfare. Although our website www.nzala.org is still a work in progress, it provides information about our projects and activities, as well as contact information.A number of NZALA projects, submissions, and reports are in the pipeline.
The first submission on the proposed Code of Welfare for the Temporary Housing of Companion Animals has already been made to the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee. As animal law continues to be reviewed and amended, making submissions will be an important function of NZALA.
NZALA will also host public lectures and seminars, and will work to promote the field of animal law within New Zealand law schools.
In addition, NZALA will work alongside animal protection organisations, and assist with prosecutions against animal cruelty.
NZALA looks forward to growing its membership and influence to improve animal justice.We know most New Zealanders care about animals and want to see the law operate more effectively to protect their rights and welfare.
Lucy Leadbetter