26Objection to disqualification
Every person disqualified under section 25—
- may object to the disqualification by lodging with the territorial authority a written objection to the disqualification; and
- shall be entitled to be heard in support of the objection.
An objection under this section may be lodged at any time but no objection shall be lodged within 12 months of the hearing of any previous objection to the disqualification.
In considering any objection under this section, the territorial authority shall have regard to—
- the circumstances and nature of the offence or offences in respect of which the person was disqualified; and
- the competency of the person objecting in terms of responsible dog ownership; and
- any steps taken by the owner to prevent further offences; and
- the matters advanced in support of the objection; and
- any other relevant matters.
In determining any objection, the territorial authority may uphold, bring forward the date of termination, or immediately terminate the disqualification of any person and shall give written notice of its decision, the reasons for it, and the right of appeal under section 27 to the objector.