Ms Bairbre Nic Aongusa:

As I said earlier, we do not speak for the local authorities but my understanding is that the approach taken now caters more for animal welfare and tries to encourage more responsible dog ownership around the country. I would not necessarily link that change to the transfer of responsibility to the new Department. It may be a reflection of other responsibilities in local authorities. I can try to find out more information about that and communicate with the Deputy. I do not have that information to hand.