Consultation launched on a draft Code of Practice for Entry to Premises under Warrant
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has launched a consultation on a draft Code of Practice for Entry to Premises under Warrant under the Diseases of Animals Order 1981.
DARD is responsible for enforcing the Diseases of Animals Order to protect animal and public health. The Department appoints inspectors to carry out inspections and to take samples. Although inspectors have powers of entry at times they need to apply for a warrant when they are unable to carry out these functions, for example if the occupier refuses them entry or if the premises are unoccupied and inaccessible without forced entry.
It is intended that the Code of Practice will apply to inspectors on all occasions when they enter premises under warrant. An important element of the Code will include the right of the occupier to choose to have a Search Liaison Officer (SLO) present during the search. The SLO will be independent of the Department and will offer support to the occupier and all those involved in the use of powers of entry to a dwelling house.
The consultation will close on 5 October 2012 and the consultation documents are available on the DARD website http://www.dardni.gov.uk/consultations-doa-cop.
