Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 127: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps taken to ensure the welfare of circus animals. [14897/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Primary responsibility for issues relating to the safety and welfare of circus animals lie with the owner or keeper of such animals. The Protection of Animals Acts 1911 and 1965 is the principal legislation governing the welfare of all animals in this country and this legislation is enforced by An Garda Síochána.

While my Department's responsibility in the area of animal welfare currently extends to farmed animals only, the new Animal Health and Welfare Bill, currently being drafted gives effect to a number of animal health and welfare commitments contained in the Programme for Government including a commitment for the consolidation of responsibility for the welfare of all animals within my Department.