Jennifer Whitmore
Ceist:83. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when he will publish the Dog Control Stakeholder Group Report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52305/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 9 July 2026
Ceisteanna (83)
Freagraí scríofa
Responsibility for all policy and legislation in relation to the Control of Dogs Acts and Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010 transferred to my Department from the Department for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht on 1st June 2025 and 1st August 2025 respectively. This fulfilled a Programme for Government commitment to bring a coherent approach to dog control issues by ensuring all legislation and policy in relation to the control of dogs, dog welfare and dog breeding establishments rests with my Department.
With the transfer of functions, I took over responsibility for the Dog Control Stakeholder Group, which had been established by the then Minister for Rural and Community Development in March 2024. Its remit was to consider policy and legislative matters in relation to the Dog Control and Dog Breeding Establishments Acts, including 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 recently received the report of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group, which I am considering, including any recommendations in relation to dog control legislation. I hope to publish the report shortly.
Question No. 84 answered with Question No. 27.
Questions Nos. 85 to 96, inclusive, answered orally.