Vol. 567 No. 5
356 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he envisages public health legislation to prohibit the keeping of pigeons in densely populated urban areas in view of the health hazard that they, their droppings, and the flies which are attracted by both, pose for nearby residents. [14700/03]
While the keeping of pigeons may, from time to time, create a nuisance, I am not aware that they pose a significant public health hazard. Accordingly, I have no plans to introduce legislation to prohibit the keeping of pigeons in urban areas.
Any nuisance arising from the keeping of pigeons in built-up areas is a matter for the relevant local authority under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Acts 1878-1964.
