Ayen Chol
BY NATALIE GALLENTI
BRIMBANK Council last week welcomed new legislation introduced by the State Government to crack down on dangerous and restricted dogs, including American pitbulls.
The move, which coincided with the opening of a telephone hotline to report dangerous dogs, came only two weeks after the tragic death of four-year-old St Albans resident Ayen Chol.
Nationals deputy leader Peter Walsh said the Coalition Government had moved swiftly to protect the community.
“The legislation is the first of several measures to get rid of restricted breeds, including pitbulls,” Mr Walsh said.
“People should not be in fear of a dog attack when they are walking down a street or their children are playing in their backyard.”
The legislation introduced last Tuesday will end the amnesty to register restricted breeds by September 29, meaning any dog identified as a pitbull not registered after that time can be seized and destroyed.
Brimbank City Council chair of administrators Peter Lewinsky said it was high time local governments had the power to seize unregistered pitbull crosses.
Mr Lewinsky said the Brimbank community had been horrified by the events of last month.
“Local government has long campaigned for stronger legislation and at last we’re getting it. “Hopefully, the Federal Government will ensure that all states follow the lead set by the Victorian Government. All Australians have the right to be safe from dogs that cause havoc and harm.”
Mr Lewinsky urged the Government to introduce a new crime similar to culpable driving so that owners of dogs like the one that killed Ayen Chol could be jailed rather than face a fine.
People can report a dog they believe is a restricted breed by phoning the dangerous dog hotline on 1300 101 080 between the hours of 8am and 6pm.
The hotline should not be used in an emergency.
If people are in immediate danger they should call Triple Zero.
