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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 5

Written Answers - Puppy Farms.

Willie O'Dea

Question:

249 Mr. O'Dea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the action, if any, that is being taken to tackle the problem of puppy farms in urban housing estates. [7399/97]

My ministerial responsibility extends to the possible cruelty aspects of this issue. The Protection of Animals Acts, 1911 and 1965, are the principal statutes governing the welfare of animals. This legislation is enforced by the Garda and provides for fines and-or imprisonment for those convicted of offences and cruelty. As a result of a major recasting by section 48 of the Control of Houses Act, 1996, the penalties under the 1911 Act have recently been increased to a fine of up to £1,500 and-or six months imprisonment on summary conviction, and a fine of up to £10,000 and-or two years imprisonment on conviction on indictment. These significantly tougher measures will act as a greater deterrent against acts of cruelty to all animals.

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