MLAs at Stormont will vote on Tuesday on a private members bill to ban hunting wild animals with dogs in Northern Ireland.

The bill, introduced by Alliance Party MLA John Blair, seeks to bring Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK, where such hunting is already prohibited.

Countryside Alliance Ireland has described the bill as misguided and divisive. Spokesperson Gary McCartney warned that its scope could expose dog owners to prosecution if their dogs chase wild mammals.

John Blair said similar laws have operated in Scotland for more than 20 years without any prosecutions of dog owners.

Hunt supporters including Emma Hodge of the East Antrim hounds and Sean McAloon of the Fermanagh Harriers said the legislation would affect their packs and livelihoods. They described hunting as a form of pest control used by farmers.

The bill previously failed in 2021. It is expected to receive support from Sinn Féin and the Alliance Party, with some DUP members also likely to back it.

A protest against the bill was held outside Stormont on Tuesday morning.