Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Two days after Christmas, a farmer in Lorrha in County Tipperary was alerted that his sheep had been attacked by dogs. Some 80 of his 133-strong flock had been savaged. Councillor Michael O'Meara, who is a neighbour of this farmer, told me of the devastation and heartbreak suffered by the farmer and his family. The attack was caused by dogs whose owners had failed in their responsibility to keep them under control. These dogs were free to roam and maraud. Dog owners need to understand the damage and hurt caused by carelessness as we enter lambing season. Earlier this year, a young woman in Carrick-on-Suir was attacked and permanently scarred. She was terrorised and had to jump into the river to escape four loose pitbulls. The incidence of dog attacks on children across the country is escalating. We must act to enforce stronger laws and we must being forward robust legislation to enforce responsible dog ownership.

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