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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 6

Written Answers. - Dog Pounds.

John Gormley

Question:

174 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his attention has been drawn to the fact that bolt guns are being used in dog pounds in Wexford, Kerry and Monaghan; his views on whether this practice is acceptable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23554/99]

John Gormley

Question:

176 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he has satisfied himself that the records kept by pounds under the Control of Dogs Acts, 1986 and 1992, are fully in order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23556/99]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 176 together.

I have no responsibility for dog pounds. The Control of Dogs Acts, which deal, inter alia, with dog pounds, are the responsibility of the Department of the Environment and Local Government.

The Protection of Animals Acts, 1911 and 1965, are the principal statutes governing cruelty to animals in this country. These Acts are enforced by the Garda Síochána. If any person has reason to believe that there has been an act of cruelty against an animal, the matter should be reported to the Garda for any action which they consider appropriate. The penalties for cruelty under the 1911 Act have been increased significantly in the context of the Control of Horses Act, 1996. These penalties now are: 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.
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