C-61.1 - Act respecting the conservation and development of wildlife

Section 20.2 Disposition versions

2021-06-11

20.2. Care expenses incurred as a result of the seizure of a live animal, domestic animal, fish or invertebrate are to be borne by the seized party or the owner against whom proceedings are instituted. The care expenses bear interest at the rate set under the first paragraph of section 28 of the Tax Administration Act (chapter A-6.002).

Care expenses include the costs incurred as a result of the seizure, in particular the costs incurred to provide shelter, veterinary care, treatment, medication, transportation and food, after deduction of the expenses borne by the seized party or the owner if he is given custody.

Within 30 days of the end of the period during which the animal, domestic animal, fish or invertebrate is kept under seizure, the Minister serves a statement of the care expenses on the seized party or the owner. Not later than 30 days after receiving the statement, the seized party or the owner may apply to a judge of the Court of Québec or a presiding justice of the peace to have him examine the statement and the expenses he is contesting, set the amount of care expenses and determine the conditions of payment.

Care expenses paid are reimbursed if no proceedings are instituted against the seized party or the owner, as applicable.

If the owner fails to comply with the conditions determined by the judge or presiding justice of the peace for payment of the advance or for payment of the care expenses, or if the owner fails to pay the care expenses within 30 days of receiving the statement notified by the Minister, a wildlife protection officer may confiscate the animal, domestic animal, fish or invertebrate.

2021, c. 24, s. 15.