Control of Dogs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 April 2014

Tuesday, 15 April 2014

Questions (458)

Seán Kyne

Question:

458. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the concerns that the current primary legislation regarding dogs is not sufficiently breed neutral; if, with the introduction of new measures by local authorities, local authorities will accurately identify dog breeds in cases where a dog breed is similar to one which is subject to controls; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18033/14]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

The current primary legislation regarding dogs, the Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and 1992, contain provisions relating to the need to keep dogs under effectual control which are entirely breed neutral. The statutory responsibility for the enforcement of this legislation rests with the local authorities and is overseen within local authorities by the local authority veterinary services.