Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 October 2026
494. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the additional measures that can be introduced to prevent the illegal hunting of livestock by lurcher hounds in the Loop Head peninsula. [70665/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraHunting falls under the Wildlife Act 1976 which is responsibility of The National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This act is enforced by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), An Garda Síochána and Minister-appointed authorised officers.
Legislative and policy responsibility for the Control of Dogs Acts transferred to my Department on 01 June 2025 and for the Dog Breeding Establishments Act on 01 August 2025. This fulfilled a Programme for Government commitment to centralise all legislation and policy in relation to the control of dogs, dog welfare and dog breeding establishments rests with my Department.
It is important to note, however, that Local Authorities, through the Dog Warden Service, have responsibility for all operational matters under the Control of Dogs Acts, including enforcement. This includes the powers to seize dogs, impose on-the-spot fines and take court proceedings against owners.
The hiring of dog wardens is also a matter for each Local Authority. Funding of €2m was made available to Local Authorities by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) in 2025 to facilitate the hiring of additional wardens. This funding will not necessarily cover the full cost of hiring additional dog wardens but is meant as a contribution towards same. My Department has committed to continuing this level of funding in 2026, making a further €2m available to Local Authorities to assist with the employment of dog wardens.
I am committed to reviewing all legislative, enforcement and engagement issues relating to the control of dogs and in this regard I will be guided by the recommendations of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group established in 2014. I have received the report of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group, which I am considering, including any recommendations in relation to dog control legislation.
My Department operates a confidential animal welfare helpline, where the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation. The contact details are:
Helpline Phone No: 01 6072379.
Email address: animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie.
