Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
85. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether he is satisfied that the current regulatory and inspection regime is sufficient to prevent poor welfare standards and illegal puppy farming practices in dog breeding establishments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36171/26]
View answerAnimal welfare is a key priority for me as Minister and for the Government. My Department has lead policy responsibility within government for animal welfare and takes this matter most seriously.
I am committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner and remain committed to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, which provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare.
My Department keeps the Act under review in light of key developments in the areas of animal welfare, the law and having regard to the practical lessons learnt from operating the Act.
In order to bring a coherent approach to dog control, last year, all policy and legislative responsibility under both the Control of Dogs Act (1986) and Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010 transferred to my Department. In both cases, local authorities retain responsibility for all operational and enforcement matters.
All dog breeding establishments are required to undergo an annual veterinary inspection to ensure compliance with welfare standards in Ireland. Part of this inspection is to ensure that animals are in good health, have appropriately sized enclosures and that these enclosures are clean and have adequate food, water and bedding.
A high-level stakeholder group was established in 2024 to consider policy and legislative matters, specifically the Dog Control Acts and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act.
The stakeholder group’s remit includes considering the need for legislative change. This requires in-depth analysis and consultation to ensure that amendments are not just robust, fit for purpose and implementable, but that they also deliver the best outcomes for communities.
My Department is committed to reviewing all legislation relating to dogs, and in this regard will be guided by the recommendations of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group. I expect the group to revert to me with recommendations on the matter imminently. In the meantime, I am fully committed to progressing the work in this area.
I hope to come forward with the Heads of a new Bill to amend the Dog Breeding Establishments Act shortly.
