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Job description

The postholder will be responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the relevant legislation under the Dogs Order(NI) 1983, the Dangerous Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1991, Welfare of Animals NI Act 2011, The Litter Order(NI) 1994, The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act(NI) 2011, The Street Trading Act(NI) 2001, and other relevant Council Bye-Laws and relevant legislation in so far as it relates to the post. Support the Enforcement of other legislation across the Licensing and Enforcement section.

Responsibilities

• To patrol the district, including Council maintained beaches, on foot or in a vehicle, for the purpose of deterring and/or detecting stray and uncontrolled dogs and any breaches under the Dogs Order(NI) 1983 and associated legislation.
• To identify as Council expert witnesses and to seize and take control of Dangerous Dog Breeds, and take appropriate action under Article 29 of the Dogs(NI) Order 1983, The Dangerous Dogs(NI) Order 1001, and to impound as required.
• To fully understand and have knowledge of all relevant legislation in so far as it relates to the functions of the post. To implement the requirements of the Legislation and to inform dog owners and keepers of the legal requirements.
• To investigate and seek resolution to complaints and enquiries from the public, and other agencies, Under Article 29 of the Dogs(NI) Order 1983(Powers to deal with attacking of persons, other animals or worrying of livestock) on all matters.
• To work independently without supervision often in confrontational situations and in conjunction with PSNI.
• To seize and impound in approved kennels stray dogs and dogs detained by other persons where the owners are not available or cannot be traced after reasonable enquiries have been made including emergency evening and weekend working.
• To request, as necessary, any person appearing to be the owner or keeper of a dog to produce a relevant dog licence.
• To inspect breeding establishments and guard dog kennels, making recommendations for initial registration and annual retention of registration and licensing of dogs.
• To render any necessary minor first aid to injured dogs or recommend the assistance of a Veterinary Surgeon and where necessary to oversee the humane destruction of dogs.
• To assist the Animal Welfare Officers in seizing and investigation of dog complaints under Sections 4 & 9 of the Welfare of Animals(NI) Act 2011.
• To maintain records and compile reports on all relevant matters, including monitoring the day to day conditions of the kennels, as required.
• To ensure all administration is completed in relation to the functions of the post, such as the issuing of fixed penalty notices and warnings.
• Gathering of evidence under PACE guidelines and preparation of witness statements. At all times adhering to PACE guidelines for audio-visual interviews.
• Preparation of reports, witness statements and evidence for submission at any legal proceedings and the presentation of this evidence in a Court of Law. To authorise and allocate associated correspondence for issue.
• To issue notices as required under Article 36(fixed penalty) of the Dogs Order(NI) 1983.
• To create, develop, deliver and review educational programmes and publicity materials in relation to all aspects of the functions of the post, aimed at schools, community groups and individual ratepayers.
• To support Community Groups, dog owners and the general public by providing information, guidance and advice as required.
• To advise on the erection of No Dog Fouling signs, Litter Receptacles and other means of controlling litter.
• Enforcement of breaches of Legislation and Council bye-laws, including Off-Street Car Parking and Street Trading Regulations, in conjunction with the Licensing and Enforcement sections, including evening and weekend working.
• Making decisions as to the appropriate course of action, acting with discretion on outcomes where prosecution or penalties may occur.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Grade C or above in at least 4 GCSEs* or equivalent, one of which must be GCSE English Language or equivalent and one of which must be a GCSE in a numerate subject or equivalent.
• And
• At least 1 years’ experience in working with dogs e.g. dog handler, dog warden etc.
• Or
• If no qualifications then 2 years experience in working with dogs e.g. dog handler, dog warden etc.
• Experience of carrying out investigations and associated paperwork.
• Experience of lone working.
• Be able to demonstrate competence in the use of Microsoft office applications including email, spread sheets, databases.
• Knowledge of legislation relevant of the role.
• Hold a full current driving licence and access to transport, or access to transport to meet the requirements of the post.

Further Information

14 hours per week- This is a two day post (Monday - Tuesday)