Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 June 2024
391. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development in view of the recent tragic accidents involving very powerful dogs, the plans to tighten the rules about permitted breeds and codes of conduct when in public places; the plans for public information notices to inform people of rights and duties at places which might be deemed higher-risk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25910/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has policy and legislative responsibility for the Control of Dogs Acts and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act. In March 2024 I announced the establishment of a high level stakeholder group to consider and make recommendations to strengthen policy in relation to these issues. The group is independently chaired by retired Deputy Garda Commissioner Mr John Twomey and is comprised of members with a broad range of expertise.
The group have been tasked with considering the policy and legislative matters under the remit of my Department, specifically the Dog Control Acts and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act. In view of recent events, I have asked the Chair to prioritise the issue of Restricted Dogs and this will be the first issue to be considered by the stakeholder group at its next meeting to be held later this month.
In April 2024 I launched a significant media campaign on Responsible Dog Ownership. My Department has also worked closely with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to publish a plain-language leaflet informing dog owners of their legal obligations. This leaflet has been widely distributed and is now available from every dog warden, local authority and veterinary surgery in the country in addition to over 100 animal welfare charities. It is also available in multiple languages online at Gov.ie/ResponsibleDogOwnership.
