Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2010
122 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 125 of 4 March 2010, the reason a person (details supplied) in County Sligo has not been contacted by his Department; when his Department will contact this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18535/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe case involving the person concerned is complex and has required the Department to obtain the professional advice of a number of experts, including legal counsel. The Department has been examining the advice received and expects to be in a position to write to the individual in the coming days.
123 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will consider a petition (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18540/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Dog Breeding Establishments Bill 2009, which has now completed Committee Stage in the Seanad where it was introduced, proposes to give statutory effect to the recommendations of the Working Group that reviewed the management of dog breeding establishments. It defines a dog breeding establishment as a premises with not less than 6 bitches of 4 months old and capable of breeding. The Bill proposes that all dog breeding establishments be required to register with the relevant local authority, that they pay a registration fee and that they meet a minimum set of veterinary, welfare and other standards, together with some associated requirements.
The Hunting Association of Ireland (HAI) made submissions to me in relation to their activities. As a consequence and in recognition of the "not for profit" basis of these activities, and as communicated to the HAI directly and in response to representations on their behalf, I decided to provide an exemption in the legislation in respect of the payment of registration fees. The HAI has made clear that their premises operate in accordance with comprehensive and appropriate standards. Accordingly, I do not consider that this aspect of the proposed legislative regime should cause difficulty to their members. Regulations will be introduced following enactment of the Bill and these will be subject to consultation with interested parties, including the HAI. to meet the requirements of the legislation.
