Dog Breeding Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 January 2019

Wednesday, 23 January 2019

Questions (232)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

232. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development his plans to review and update the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3388/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development

My Department has overall policy responsibility for the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010.  The Act provides for guidelines to be put in place for the management and operation of Dog Breeding Establishments. Following a public consultation process, my Department published new Guidelines in July of last year. The revised Guidelines came into effect on 1 January this year.

I want to see high standards achieved by Dog Breeding Establishments in Ireland.  Having published the new Guidelines, my Department is now identifying any necessary legislative amendments that may be required to further improve standards.

This review will involve examining the relevant legislation to ensure that existing laws and international best practice, as well as the views of stakeholders, are taken into account. Any amendments to the Act will be dependent on the outcome of this review.  This work is ongoing and will continue throughout 2019.