Ms Brenda Fitzpatrick:

The national database goes back to the first Deputy's points. There needs to be a national database whereby the dots can be joined up and whereby local authorities, wardens, the Garda and the relevant animal welfare groups have access not only via the microchip but also in the context of identifying features, etc. It is paramount that this happens. It may seem like a lot of work, and it will be in the areas where the dogs are stolen, but it can be achieved through consistency. It is absolutely vital that it happens.

On Senator Brady's point about tattooing dogs, greyhounds are obviously tattooed because they are seen in some quarters as product for economic gain for greyhound racing. The WAG rescue group we are in predominantly rescues dogs on the restricted breed list. Numerous dogs still come to us with their ears mutilated or removed. These are dogs of the bulldog breed. Anything that can be mutilated or hacked off or any injury that can be given to a dog certainly happens in this country consistently. Whether it is tail-cutting, ear mutilation or whatever, we would be concerned if that was seen as a solution to the problem. Microchipping is the first port of call.