Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2017
557. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development his plans to conduct a review of the breed restrictions in the Control of Dogs Act 1998 regulations in view of a group's (details supplied) call to conduct a review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41753/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe overall thrust of dog control legislation is to place the onus on dog owners and those in control of dogs to act responsibly by keeping their dogs under effectual control, irrespective of breed. Such responsible dog ownership is the key to reducing incidences of dog biting and other problem behaviours.
The Control of Dogs Acts 1986 to 2010 set out a range of requirements for all dog owners or any other person in charge of a dog. In particular, section 9 of the 1986 Act requires the owner or any other person in charge of a dog to accompany it and keep it under effectual control in any place other than the premises of the owner, the premises of the person in control of the dog, or other premises with the consent of the owner of the premises. Section 21 of the 1986 Act provides that the owner of a dog shall be liable in damages for damage caused in an attack on any person by the dog.
In addition to the foregoing, the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 set out further requirements that owners of specific breeds of dogs have to follow, namely that such dogs must be muzzled and led, on a sufficiently strong leash or chain not exceeding two metres in length, by a competent person over 16 years of age when in a public place. The specific control requirements for these restricted 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.
I am satisfied that the restrictions under the current legislative framework provide the necessary controls for the protection of society. However, I will ask my Department officials to work with all relevant stakeholders to review the findings of the newly published scientific research.
