Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 168: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if legislation on the control of animals has any application with regard to wild cats in urban area; if not, the avenue open to residents who are concerned about large number of cats invading their gardens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40904/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Certain provisions of the Control of Dogs Act 1986 may be extended, by regulations, to other species of domesticated animals, including cats. In the absence of reliable data regarding the number of wild or feral cats, and of appropriate solutions, it is not proposed to place an additional responsibility on local authorities that might dilute their control efforts in relation to dangerous and stray dogs which are generally viewed as presenting greater problems than feral cats. However, where a local authority considers it appropriate it may assist a body which is endeavouring to reduce, in a humane manner, the problems caused by feral cats. I understand that a number of local authorities have provided assistance to such bodies in recent years.