Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 1 Feb 2000

Vol. 513 No. 3

Written Answers. - Dog Licences.

Noel Ahern

Question:

247 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will add dog licences to the available entitlements under the free schemes in view of the 100% increase in the cost of dog licences and the resultant concern and complaints from old age pensioners; if he will adopt this suggestion in view of the fact he operates a scheme for security measures for the elderly which a dog can be considered part thereof; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2396/00]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

Neither the range of the free schemes currently available nor the scheme of community support for older people would be an appropriate way of providing assistance towards the cost of dog licences and there are, therefore, no plans to introduce such a scheme.

I consider that the matter raised comes under the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Environment and Local Government.