Cecilia Keaveney (Fianna Fail)

I appreciate the Cathaoirleach's advice.

When will the Student Support Bill 2008 be before the House? It is reaching a conclusion in the Dáil and it is important that it be passed before the summer recess.

Will the Acting Leader invite the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to the House to discuss a serious issue I have encountered in respect of the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998? Some ten breeds described as dangerous are required by the regulations to be on short leads and muzzled when in public places. There is a proliferation of rottweilers and so on around the country. A number of people have approached me concerning dogs of the breeds in question gaining access to private properties. While they have knocked children down, they have not yet mauled anyone. According to the Garda and dog wardens, the dogs are not considered dangerous until they have bitten someone. Will the Minister determine whether there is a gap in legislation, as a dangerous dog outside its owner's private property should be muzzled? If a person with young children is enduring multiple property incursions by a dangerous dog from nearby, his or her children's right to move outside their house is being denied. There is a gap in the regulations. Someone need not be mauled before something can be done.