Key points
• A motion calling for restrictions on aversive training devices will be debated in the Northern Ireland Assembly on 1 June 2026.
• The motion refers to shock collars, prong collars, choke chains and “grot collars”.
• MLAs are calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to introduce legislation during the current Assembly mandate.
• The proposal includes exemptions for veterinarians, animal rescuers and dog wardens in specific emergency situations.
• A separate DAERA consultation on animal welfare reforms remains open until 30 June 2026.
Northern Ireland Assembly set to debate aversive training tool ban
Members of the Northern Ireland Assembly are due to debate a motion calling for a ban on the use, sale and ownership of several aversive animal training devices, including shock collars, prong collars, choke chains and so-called “grot collars”.
The motion has been tabled by MLAs Robbie Butler, Doug Beattie, Diana Armstrong and Jon Burrows and will be discussed as Private Members’ Business on 1 June 2026.
If supported, the motion would call on the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to introduce legislation prohibiting the use and possession of these devices during the current Assembly mandate.
What does the motion say?
The motion states that aversive training tools are a “barbaric and cruel way to train domestic animals” and acknowledges concerns that such devices may cause both physical and psychological distress, potentially leading to long-term behavioural issues.
It also notes that electronic shock collars are already prohibited for cats and dogs in Wales and references existing guidance in Scotland.
The proposal specifically recognises calls from organisations including the Dogs Trust and the USPCA for stronger regulation of aversive training devices.
Part of wider animal welfare reforms
The Assembly debate comes against the backdrop of a wider public consultation launched by the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
The consultation, which closes on 30 June 2026, seeks views on several proposed animal welfare reforms, including:
• Regulation of rescue and rehoming organisations
• Stronger microchipping requirements for dogs
• Dog licence fee changes
• A ban on specific aversive training devices
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said the proposals form part of the department’s wider Animal Welfare Pathway and are intended to strengthen animal welfare protections across Northern Ireland.
What happens next?
The Assembly motion itself does not automatically create new law. Instead, it represents a political call for legislative action and signals the Assembly’s position on the issue. Any future ban would still require legislation to be drafted, scrutinised and approved before taking effect.
The motion also proposes exemptions allowing veterinarians, animal rescuers and dog wardens to use necessary equipment when required for safe handling and emergency situations.
What this means for dog guardians
• No ban has been introduced at this stage.
• The Assembly debate may indicate the direction of future animal welfare policy in Northern Ireland.
• The public consultation on proposed reforms remains open until 30 June 2026.
• Any legislative changes would require further development and approval before becoming law.
Further Information
The full Northern Ireland Assembly motion can be viewed here:
Northern Ireland Assembly Order Paper – 1 June 2026
The DAERA consultation on proposed animal welfare reforms, including proposals relating to aversive training devices, can be viewed here:
DAERA Consultation on Proposed Animal Welfare Policy Reforms
DAERA’s announcement launching the consultation can be viewed here:
Minister Muir launches public consultation on next phase of animal welfare reforms
You can view qualified dog trainers and behaviouralists who do not use aversive tools or cause fear or harm to dogs here: Trainers & Behaviourists
If you’re a qualified, kind and ethical dog trainer or behaviourist we welcome you to get listed on the Yappily Directory.
Add a comment