Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 372: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action being taken by him to incorporate proposed new regulations governing dog breeding establishments within the proposed animal welfare Bill which will include dogs as per the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 456 of 10 March 2009; and his views on publishing temporary simple regulations to control cruelty in dog breeding pending the outcome of the legislative procedures for the animal welfare Bill. [13576/09]

Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 377: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has an objection to the preparation of regulations governing the intensive rearing of dogs being included in the proposed animal welfare Bill. [12839/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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I propose to answer Questions Nos. 372 and 377 together.

As indicated in previous replies on this matter, work has been ongoing for some time in my Department in drafting measures to provide for statutory regulation of dog breeding establishments within the dog control legislative regime. This process has included discussions with a number of organisations, bodies, public agencies and interests active in this area. The issues involved are complex and required detailed consideration. Following advice, it is my intention to introduce amending legislation in this area. My proposals in this regard will be published as soon as possible and will address a number of issues relating specifically to dog breeding and control. The proposals being brought forward by my colleague the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, under the Animal Welfare Bill will update existing welfare legislation in respect of all animals.