Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 354: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the legislative changes proposed with reference to dog fighting and related matters following recent discussions with Dr. Ian Paisley. [21364/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The particular matter raised by the Deputy arises from a recent television programme about dog fighting in Northern Ireland following which the matter was discussed between An Taoiseach and the Northern Ireland First Minister.

Under the provisions of the Protection of Animals Acts 1911 and 1965 dog fighting is among those activities that is illegal. The enforcement of the legislation and the prosecution of cases is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána.

The Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and 1992 and Regulations made thereunder provide the regulatory framework for dog control. Enforcement of this legislation is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and local authorities.

The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for Government includes a commitment to consolidate responsibility for the welfare of all animals (including non-farm animals) within my Department. There is also a commitment to introduce a new Animal Welfare Bill and update existing legislation, to ensure that the welfare of animals is properly protected and that the penalties for offenders are increased significantly.

Jim McDaid (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 355: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps she is taking, in view of a recent television programme (details supplied) on dog fighting and the cruelty that it involves, to ensure this part of Ireland is not used as a support for such a practice. [21403/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The particular matter raised by the Deputy arises from a recent television programme about dog fighting in Northern Ireland following which the matter was discussed between An Taoiseach and the Northern Ireland First Minister.

Under the provisions of the Protection of Animals Acts 1911 and 1965 dog fighting is among those activities that is illegal. The enforcement of the legislation and the prosecution of cases is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána.

The Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and 1992 and Regulations made thereunder provide the regulatory framework for dog control. Enforcement of this legislation is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and local authorities.

The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for Government includes a commitment to consolidate responsibility for the welfare of all animals (including non-farm animals) within my Department. There is also a commitment to introduce a new Animal Welfare Bill and update existing legislation, to ensure that the welfare of animals is properly protected and that the penalties for offenders are increased significantly.