asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will request all local authorities in conjunction with the county medical officer and the RSPCA to hold meetings to highlight to the public the grave danger to public health and the serious loss to livestock due to the stray dog problem in our towns and county areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Uncontrolled Dogs.
82.
Because of the serious losses arising out of attacks on sheep and the dangers to public health posed by uncontrolled dogs, I intend to introduce legislation in the current Dáil session which will give local authorities the responsibility and the statutory powers to tackle these problems. The debate on the Bill should highlight the matters mentioned and consequently I feel that meetings on the lines suggested are not necessary at this time.