Vol. 464 No. 3
132 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation to licence commercial dog breeding establishments known as puppy farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8225/96]
Controls on the commercial export of dogs to other EU member states, including the registration of exporters were introduced with effect from 1 February 1996 by virtue of regulations adopted under the European Communities Act, 1972. The regulations implemented an EU Directive which lays down animal health conditions for trade in certain animals, including dogs. As far as national controls on the breeding of dogs are concerned, I have previously stated in this House that I have no plans at this stage to introduce such controls.
