Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 June 2022
941. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the review of measures for the control of dogs in Ireland public consultation that was undertaken in July 2019; the outcome and recommendations of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32061/22]
View answerMy Department recently published the consultation report on ‘A review of measures relating to the control of dogs in Ireland’. The report, and a selection of submissions from representative organisations, is available to view at www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/1e785c-dog-control/#review-of-measures-relating-to-the-control-of-dogs-in-ireland.
I intend to take action shortly to respond to the growing concern in rural communities about livestock worrying, and in particular sheep worrying, by dogs which are not under proper control. My Department is currently working on options in this regard, including amendments to primary legislation and regulations relating to on-the-spot fines.
In addition, as a result of this review, my Department is proposing to amend Statutory Instrument S.I. No. 442 /1998 - Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 to include the Presa Canario breed of dog. My Department will also promote a culture of responsible dog ownership in Ireland, by supporting responsible dog ownership, education and awareness campaigns and the consultation report outlines measures regarding how it is proposed to do this.
