The municipal plenary of Mairena del Alcor has initially approved, by majority, the modification of the Regulatory Ordinance for the Control of Feral Cat Colonies, aiming to adapt it to Law 7/2023 on Animal Welfare and improve neighbourly coexistence.
The Mairena del Alcor City Council has greenlit the update of the regulations governing feral cat colonies in the municipality. The modification, approved in the ordinary plenary session of July, seeks to reinforce legal security, optimise the CER (Capture-Neuter-Return) method, and ensure public health.
After more than two years of applying the original ordinance, approved in early 2024, municipal technical services and the Environment Area identified the need to update the text to align it with the state legal framework, specifically Law 7/2023 on the Protection of the Rights and Welfare of Animals.
Among the main new features is the definition of 'Feeding Points', which are now explicitly regulated. Hygienic and locational conditions are established for both fixed and non-fixed points, aiming to avoid inconveniences for residents and public health issues.
Another significant new feature is the regularisation of authorisations for coordinators and volunteer caregivers. The credentials will be valid for four years and will be linked to the completion of mandatory ongoing training in animal welfare.
The sanctioning regime has also been adjusted, adapting the catalogue of infractions and penalties to the competency framework and national legislation. Additionally, the Municipal Registry of colonies and individuals is simplified and updated, optimising the census through IT tools and collaboration with veterinarians.
The modification also introduces organisational flexibility: the Mayor is empowered to adopt measures for technical development and management instructions for the CER programme, without altering the substantive content of the ordinance.
The City Council emphasises that the goal is to consolidate animal protection and improve neighbourly coexistence. The updated ordinance aims to provide a more effective response to the management of feral cat colonies, a topic that generates sensitivity among residents and requires a balance between animal welfare and public health.
The initially approved text now begins a 30-day public information period, during which citizens and entities can submit objections. Once this period is over, the City Council will review the proposals and definitively approve the modification, if appropriate.
Residents of Mairena del Alcor interested in the management of feral cat colonies can consult the full text of the ordinance on the municipal notice board or the City Council's electronic headquarters. The new regulation is expected to come into effect in the coming months, after completing the administrative procedures.
You may also like
