Jack Wall
Question:342 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will consider exempting old age pensioners from the obligation to pay for dog licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23114/01]
Written Answers. - Dog Licences.
The question of introducing a scheme whereby certain categories of dog owners could obtain a dog licence at a reduced rate has been examined. While it is recognised that a dog can provide a sense of security and companionship to many elderly people and those living alone, it is not, unfortunately, feasible to introduce such an exemption scheme without incurring substantial administrative costs and a loss of revenue to the local authorities who rely on the revenue from the sale of dog licences to finance their dog control activities.