07/10/2026
NoISE wishes to express its support for highly respected huntswoman Claire Bellamy following her conviction this week under Scotland’s Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023.
Claire has devoted almost three decades of her life to hounds, hunting and the rural community, working professionally and voluntarily under a succession of different hunting laws across the UK.
The circumstances of this case should also give legislators in Northern Ireland considerable food for thought.
The court heard that the hunting activity taking place that day was licensed by NatureScot, but that hounds subsequently entered an area outside the geographical boundary specified by the licence. Claire maintained that she was attempting to regain control of the hounds and bring them back. The court reached a different conclusion.
Whatever individual views may be on hunting, this case demonstrates why legislation governing the use of dogs in the countryside must be clear, proportionate and grounded in the practical realities of animal behaviour and wildlife management.
Dogs and hounds are living animals, not machines. Legislation which fails to recognise the realities faced by those handling working dogs risks turning difficult, fast-moving field situations into criminal matters.
As Northern Ireland considers its own legislation, NoISE will continue to argue for laws which protect animal welfare while remaining practical, evidence-led and workable for the people who actually manage wildlife and work dogs in our countryside.
Our thoughts and support are with Claire at what must be an extremely difficult time.
