asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to a report which indicated that a lion was kept in a cage measuring eight feet by eight feet, for over three years; and if he will introduce a Dangerous Animals Act to prevent such cruelty occuring in the future.
Written Answers. - Dangerous Animals Legislation.
60.
I am aware of the report referred to by the Deputy and understand that this case was investigated by the Garda Síochána who did not find evidence to warrant a prosecution for cruelty.
Under existing legislation — the Protection of Animals Acts, 1911 and 1965 — cruelty to any animal domestic or wild in any form is prohibited and there is provision for fines up to £500 together with prison sentences on conviction. The court is also empowered to deprive an owner who has been convicted of cruelty of any animal in relation to which the offence was committed. The Garda Síochána are responsible for the enforcement of the legislation and consider that they have adequate powers to deal with cruelty whenever it is observed by members of the force or when complaints are received from members of the public.