Editorial: State must overhaul dog laws

The Christchurch earthquakes have been blamed for many things.

Now, we are told, the earthquakes are responsible for a delay in the Government launching an enquiry into the laws controlling dangerous dogs.

We used the word "controlling" advisedly, as, despite the existence of legislation governing dangerous dogs, the horrific attacks continue.

This is a subject of high importance to Hawke's Bay, a region with more than its fair share of breeds and cross-breeds that regularly make the news for vicious attacks on people or pets.

Hastings, we know, has cracked down on dangerous dogs, yet it is only a matter of time before this newspaper will be reporting on another attack in our region.

The latest appalling attacks by dogs on children occurred in Rotorua (an American bulldog bit a 9-year-old girl) and in Porirua (an 18-month old was savaged by her family's pitbull-staffordshire cross).

Local Government Minister Nick Smith is now making noises about starting the investigation that his predecessor, Rodney Hide, promised but never delivered.

Mr Hide had pledged to reform dog control laws before the November election but the Government blames the Christchurch earthquake and the massive workload the event created for derailing its ambitions with regard to dog control.

Dr Smith is reportedly concerned at the seriousness of the latest attacks and has requested his office investigate to identify any specific implications on dog control legislation.

Hawke's Bay Today has previously argued that the Government needs to do more in this area. This is not an issue for prevarication.

Yes, dog owners have rights - but surely we have passed the point where anyone can seriously argue it is their right to own a breed or cross-breed known to be attack dogs. The worst of these breeds should be banned from New Zealand.