I propose taking Questions Nos. 4 to 7, inclusive, together.
I am indeed aware of and concerned about the damage, suffering and death being caused to sheep by marauding dogs in many parts of the country and the losses which these attacks entail for farmers. My Department have recently conducted an extensive publicity campaign on radio and television to bring home to dog owners the necessity for keeping their dogs under proper control at all times and their legal obligation for doing so.
Existing legislation, which concerns a number of Departments, provides comprehensive powers and measures for the control of dogs. My Department are primarily concerned with the protection of sheep and other farm animals from dog attacks and in this connection the Department have been examining the question of strengthening the implementation of existing measures and the possible introduction of additional measures. In this examination the suggestions by the National Action Committee for Dog Control are being given full consideration and, in this regard, a preliminary discussion with the committee has already taken place.