Animal Welfare Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 June 2012

Wednesday, 6 June 2012

Questions (760)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

765 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if feral cats are included in the Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012 in view of the fact that part of the Bill’s intention is to include all animals and not just farm animals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27133/12]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Simon Coveney)

In the Animal Health and Welfare Bill the term "Animal" is defined as "a member of the kingdomanimalae other than a human being”. This definition includes all cats. Therefore the protection of Section 12 which prohibits cruelty to animals will apply to feral cats.