The Ulster Unionist Party has given qualified support to the Hunting with Dogs Bill following its debate in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Agriculture spokesperson and AERA committee Chair Robbie Butler MLA said the party backed the broad principles of the legislation.

Butler stated the support was not based on opposition to rural activities but on the need for animal welfare laws to meet modern ethical standards.

The party noted that vermin control and wildlife management are required in rural areas and that farmers and land managers already practice responsible conservation.

Butler raised concerns about the Bill's drafting and asked the sponsor for clarity on how it would separate unlawful hunting from lawful pest control and shooting for food.

He questioned the definitions of participation, searching, pursuing, and control of dogs, and asked what evidence supported the threshold of more than two dogs.

Butler also sought clarification on whether the two-dog limit applied per person or in total when multiple people are present, and whether the Bill included a clear mental element such as intent or recklessness.

The party said it would continue to press for safeguards to prevent ordinary dog owners, rough shooters, and gamekeepers from unintended criminalisation.