Billette Delighted With Bill Improving Legal Situation of Animals

The member for Huntingdon and chief government whip, Stéphane Billette, is delighted that the government has introduced Bill no 54, which will improve the legal situation of animals.

In fact, Bill no 54 was introduced in the National Assembly on June 5. The purpose of this Bill is to hold people accountable for reprehensible behaviour by modifying  the Civil Code of Québec so that animals are legally recognized as sentient beings having biological needs, rather than as "movable property."

"By introducing this Bill, our government is showing that it is willing to punish negligence of and cruelty to animals. It is important that animal owners and custodians be obligated to ensure their animals receive the necessary care. For example, breeders must adopt sound practices concerning care and handling. It's an important step in protecting animals," explained Mr. Billette.

This Bill improving the legal status of animals should be the subject of parliamentary committee consultations. In addition, anyone may consult this Bill and comment on it on the National Assembly's website: www.assnat.qc.ca/fr/exprimez-votreopinion/commenter.html#Commenterprojetdeloi.