Leadership upheaval “raises serious questions” about animal welfare charities

Animal welfare charities are no strangers to controversy, but recent upheavals within two prominent organisations have sparked concerns about their governance.

Both charities, backing an attempt to ban hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland, are facing internal struggles, with high-profile resignations and allegations of misconduct.

The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) has experienced significant disruption, most recently with the resignation of its chief executive Nora Smith, following what’s been described as a “workplace dispute.” This came after a wave of trustee departures over the past year, prompting further scrutiny of the charity’s leadership.

This isn’t the first time the USPCA has faced governance issues. In 2016, former chief executive Stephen Philpott was dismissed for gross misconduct following an independent review. He was later convicted for defrauding the organisation of £40,000 over seven years. 

The Countryside Alliance has previously criticised the USPCA for allegedly misleading the public over wildlife crime figures, causing unnecessary concern.

The League Against Cruel Sports (LACS) is also under scrutiny. Former chief executive Andy Knott has alleged harassment after attempting to remove individuals he regarded as “animal rights extremists.” He claims this led to sustained abuse, ultimately forcing his resignation. Knott has since filed a £3 million lawsuit, accusing LACS of failing to protect him. (News, 12 March) 

Additionally, Knott has accused the charity of political interference, particularly involving former chair Dan Norris, now a Labour MP. He even reported possible fraudulent fundraising activities within LACS to Surrey Police, though the investigation was dropped due to insufficient evidence.

Both the USPCA and LACS are supporting a Private Member’s Bill aimed at banning hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland. If passed, the bill would also outlaw trail hunting and effectively ban the use of dogs for flushing pests. While these charities are pushing for changes that directly impact rural and hunting communities, the ongoing governance controversies surrounding them have raised questions about their ability to advocate on such sensitive issues with credibility.

Gary McCartney, Director of Countryside Alliance Ireland, expressed concern: “The turmoil within these organisations raises serious questions not least for the charity commission about their internal governance and credibility. Supporters are sure to feel duped once again. Political parties, some of whom have received significant donations from these charities, must reconsider their alliances.

While these groups may publicly champion animal welfare, recent leadership controversies suggest a starkly different reality behind the scenes.”