Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 February 2024
125. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his Department’s position on banning the use of shock collars for dog training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8211/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe use of remotely controlled electronic shock collars in dogs and cats has been banned in several European countries on the grounds of animal welfare. The question of whether the use of these devices on dogs and cats ought to be banned in Ireland is under consideration within my Department following consultations with the Advisory Council for Companion Animal Welfare (ACCAW), which advises me on such matters.
To further inform the decision making process my Department has conducted a public consultation. This consultation relates only to the use of electronic shock collars which are operated by a hand-held remote control. It does not relate to the use of collars which are part of a fencing/containment system to prevent straying or to anti-bark collars.
The deadline for submissions to my Department in relation to this consultation was the 16th of February, 2024. Officials in my Department will now consider and reflect on the submissions received.
