Does the HAA (Heritage Animals Act of Newfoundland and Labrador) give NPS the authority to “seize” ponies?
• NPS does not have any legal authority under the Act. The Designation of Inspectors Order is the legal document which identifies where the authority lies. It states: “3. The Director of Animal Health and Regional Veterinarians in the employ of the Animal Health Division of the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods are designated as inspectors under paragraph 6(1)(c) of the Act.” However, NPS does have a responsibility to protect the health and welfare of the Newfoundland Pony and will notify the appropriate authorities if warranted by the situation.
