Control of Dogs

Thursday, 27 November 2025

Questions (457, 458)

Ruth Coppinger

Question:

457. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the frequency of dog warden patrols in Tolka Valley park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67059/25]

View answer

Ruth Coppinger

Question:

458. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the target frequency of dog warden patrols in parks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67060/25]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Martin Heydon)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 457 and 458 together.

My Department, following transfer of functions from the Department of Community, Rural Development and the Gaeltacht in June 2025, has overall policy responsibility for the Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and subsequent revisions. However, it remains the case that local authorities, through the Dog Warden Service, have responsibility for all operational matters under the Control of Dogs Acts, including enforcement. The operational deployment of dog wardens in these circumstances remains a matter for each local authority to consider.

Question No. 458 answered with Question No. 457.