Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2026
812. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the plans to update the dog licence fee exemption to include assistance dogs for those with additional needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37350/26]
View answerI am committed to reviewing all legislative relating to the control of dogs.
Regarding the legislation in the area, a high-level Dog Control Stakeholder Group was established in 2024 to review the Control of Dogs Acts and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act. Its remit was to consider policy and legislative matters in relation to those Acts and consider any need for legislative change. The stakeholder group was comprised of members with a broad range of expertise including academics, veterinary surgeons, local authorities, farming interests, charities working in the field and animal welfare experts.
I have very recently received the report of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group, which I am considering, including any recommendations in relation to dog control legislation.
