The Northern Ireland Assembly has an opportunity to make history this week as it considers the latest stage of Alliance's legislation to outlaw hunting with dogs, party MLA John Blair has said.

Mr Blair's Private Member's Bill is due for its second stage today, when MLAs will vote on whether the proposals should advance to detailed committee scrutiny. A previous effort by the South Antrim representative was defeated in 2021, when Sinn Féin and most DUP MLAs opposed it.

"I have been genuinely blown away by the strength and breadth of public support for this Bill," said Mr Blair. "That support has come from right across Northern Ireland, from both urban and rural communities, and it is clear people want to see this cruel and outdated practice brought to an end. It is a source of embarrassment we are the only part of the UK where it has not been outlawed.

"At the same time, I have been disappointed by those who have sought to use diversions and distractions to pull focus from the central issue. This Bill is about standing up for animals and consigning this barbaric practice to the past.

"I hope all parties join Alliance in backing this ban, to reflect modern values and ensure we no longer lag behind. We have an opportunity to change history, so let's make sure we take it.

"I would once again encourage everyone who cares about this issue to contact their MLAs to let them know they are against hunting with dogs for sport."