Eoin Ó Broin
Question:287. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of prosecutions that were taken under the Online Sale and Supply of Pets Regulations, in tabular form. [47449/22]
View answerWednesday, 28 September 2022
Questions (287)
Written answers
Concern for the safety and welfare of pet animals was one of the primary reasons behind the introduction by my Department of the Animal Health and Welfare (Sale or Supply of Pet Animals) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 681/2019). These Regulations put into law certain requirements for sellers and suppliers of pet animals, including minimum ages for sale of certain mammals; record-keeping; registration with the Department; and provision of certain information about the pet in advertisement. The Regulations were welcomed by welfare organisations and are a support to those thinking of purchasing pet animals.
Extracts from the Register of Sellers and Suppliers of Pet Animals and the Register of Premises (name of seller or supplier, registration number and the county of the premises used in connection with the sale and supply of pets) are published on the Department's website at: gov.ie/en/publication/d3af4-new-rules-on-the-sale-supply-and-advertising-of-pet-animals/
The Department's website also has additional guidance for potential pet owners thinking of acquiring a pet, further supporting potential purchasers in making informed decisions.
While no prosecutions have been taken under these Regulations to date, one registration was revoked this year and two last year. The Department continues to develop its controls in respect of this legislation and is advancing its plans and approach to effective enforcement, working to achieve full compliance with the regulations on advertising pet animals.
My Department also participates in the Irish Pet Advertising Advisory Group (IPAAG), a group of animal welfare organisations, veterinary professionals and advertising platforms that address issues in relation to advertising pet animals, and engages with advertising platforms both through that group and bilaterally on the regulations.
A traceability and verification system has been developed by a website advertising dogs in conjunction with a microchipping company. I would encourage all websites to use this system.
Any evidence of animal cruelty or neglect of an animal’s welfare should be brought to the attention of my Department by calling the animal welfare helpline on 076 1064408 (Call Save) or 01 6072379 or by emailing: animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie