Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 February 2021
352. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the standards in place for dog shelters, pounds and facilities; the evidence on which these standards are based; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7797/21]
View answerUnder the Control of Dogs Act 1986 (as amended), local authorities have responsibility for the management of dog pounds. This legislation falls under the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The responsibility for the inspection of Dog Pounds falls to the appropriate local authority veterinary inspectorate.
Separately, my Department provides annual funding in support of a number of welfare organisations, some of which include dog rescue facilities. As part of this funding process, Veterinary Inspectors from my Department undertake inspections of all these organisations and facilities to ensure appropriate standards are met. Details of the Terms and Conditions associated with these funding supports are available at
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e881c-animal-welfare/#funding-to-animal-welfare-organisations
