Vol. 499 No. 2
33 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the number of dog wardens employed by local authorities; his views on whether the current number is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2062/99]
There were 62 dog wardens, including part-time wardens, employed by local authorities at the end of 1997, the latest year for which figures are available. Under the provisions of the Dog Control Acts, relevant local authorities are required to employ one or more persons to be dog wardens for their functional area. Subject to this, it is a matter for each local authority, in the context of local circumstances and Government policy on staffing, to determine the number of persons to be employed as dog wardens.
With effect from 1 February 1999, dog licence fees will be increased from £5 to £10 for an individual licence and from £100 to £200 for a general dog licence. The additional income accruing to local authorities should assist them to step up their dog control activities, where they consider this appropriate.
