Matt Carthy
Question:1181. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether the dog control unit should move to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30781/21]
View answerTuesday, 15 June 2021
Questions (1181)
Written answers
Under the Control of Dogs Act 1986, Local Authorities have statutory responsibility for all operational activities relating to the control of dogs. Under this legislation, they have the power to appoint dog wardens, provide dog shelters, seize dogs, impose on-the-spot fines and take court proceedings.
The Dog Breeding Establishments Act, 2010, establishes regulations for anyone keeping six or more female dogs which are more than six months old and are capable of breeding. Local authorities enforce the standards legislated for in the Act and can order inspections of a dog breeding establishment at all reasonable times. Premises that fail to match the standards set out under law can be issued with a Fixed Payment Notice, an Improvement Notice or a closure notice in extreme cases.
The Department of Rural and Community Development is responsible for policy and legislation regarding both the Control of Dogs Act 1996 and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. As the parent Department in relation to dog control and dog breeding establishments that Department has a dedicated Dog Control Unit. These arrangements have and continue to work effectively.
Department officials work closely to support the Gardaí, local authority and other colleagues at policy and operational level, as appropriate, where matters relevant to the Department, such as animal welfare, are encountered.