Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
601. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding private residents keeping pigeons at their home; the legislation in this regard and in particular with a risk to disease and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12207/20]
View answerAnyone who keeps poultry in Ireland must register their premises with my Department. People who keep other types of birds, including pigeons, are also encouraged to register their premises even though this is not a legal requirement. Registering a premises and flock details means that the Department can contact a person, if necessary, with information on how to protect birds in their possession in the event of a disease threat such as Avian Influenza.
Under the European Communities (Newcastle Disease) Regulations 2012 (SI 57 of 2012), anyone who owns or keeps a racing pigeon must ensure that the racing pigeon has been vaccinated against paramyxovirus.
Under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, a person having possession of an animal must ensure that the animal is kept in a manner that safeguards its health and welfare. The Act also prohibits a person from causing unnecessary pain or suffering or endangering the health and welfare of any animal. My Department operates an Animal Welfare Helpline, Lo-call 0761 064408, along with a dedicated email address, AnimalWelfare@agriculture.gov.ie, which facilitates the reporting by members of the public of concerns in regard to the welfare of animals.
