asked the Minister for the Environment if it is intended to substantially increase the licence fee for dogs in view of the damage caused by stray dogs in rural and urban areas, if he will allow local authorities a percentage of such increased fees for the establishment and maintenance with the co-operation of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of a proper compound for dogs and other domestic animals and if he will make a comprehensive statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Dog Licence Fees.
64.
The fixing of licence fees for dogs is a matter for the Minister for Finance.
However, I am aware of the problems caused by stray dogs and in March 1978 I introduced a scheme of grants for the recoupment to planning authorities of 50 per cent of the expenditure incurred by them in the provision of shelters or homes for stray or unwanted dogs and cats, or in assisting other bodies in such provision or in maintaining and operating existing shelters or homes.
In introducing the scheme I arranged with the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals that they would provide an advisory service in connection with the operation of the scheme and planning authorities were urged to consult with the society when considering the problem in their areas and before submitting proposals for grant aid to my Department.
In 1979 the sum of £60,000 was provided in my Department's vote to finance the scheme and of this a sum of £37,848 was expended. As yet no application has been made for a grant towards the cost of the provision of a new home or shelter. It is understood, however, that a number of local authorities are considering making such application and it can be taken that any applications received will be considered in my Department.