Control of Dogs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2014

Tuesday, 17 June 2014

Questions (444)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

444. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the current Control of Dogs Act 1998 regulations inhibit the dog breeds listed in becoming registered assistance and therapy dogs; if he will consider reviewing this legislation in view of statements issued by hundreds of organisations, including Dogs Trust Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25489/14]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

The Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 require that a limited list of dog breeds shall be controlled when in a public place by means of a sufficiently strong chain or leash , by a person over the age of sixteen years, and shall be securely muzzled. The regulations do not address any issues relating to assistance and therapy dogs; however I acknowledge that the restrictions imposed for safety reasons, are likely to be a factor in determining suitability as assistance and therapy dogs. As with many matters of public policy, there is a balance to be struck between the importance of public safety and any difficulty arising in the suitability of certain breeds as assistance and therapy dogs. The vast majority of dog breeds are not affected by restrictions arising from the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998, and given the public safety considerations, I am satisfied that the current breed restrictions a re appropriate.