Control of Dogs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2015

Tuesday, 26 May 2015

Ceisteanna (977)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

977. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is aware that a review of the Control of Dogs Act 1998 Regulations has been conducted by the president of the American Veterinary Medical Law Association, which has referred to our current regulations as being archaic and has highlighted that it is scientifically impossible for local authorities to accurately identify a dog breed or mix or whether a dog contains a strain of one of the listed breeds without conducting a full genetic profile on each dog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20748/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

I am aware of the views referred to, and refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 542, 543 and 559 of 6 May 2015 which set out the position in relation to the onus on dog owners and those in control of dogs to act responsibly by keeping their dogs under effectual control, irrespective of breed and in relation to review of the relevant legislation.

I am satisfied that these specific control requirements for the listed breeds are a balanced and workable arrangement which recognises the rights of dog owners, respects animal welfare to the extent possible, while also taking account of the needs of society to be protected from dogs with a significant capability to inflict very serious injury, or cause death.