Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 85: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the co-ordinating action being taken with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to address the outbreak of canine brucellosis; the action being taken to stop the spread of this disease; and if he will make a commitment to the regulation of the welfare of the animals in dog farms here in view of the lack of regulation in this sector at present. [19979/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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With regard to the case in question my officials have been in contact with the Local Authority Veterinary Service in the area and have offered to provide, if requested, any advice within my Department's area of competence. Canine brucellosis is not a notifiable disease and it does not pose a threat to the bovine herd. The disease, if confirmed, in dogs at the establishment in question would be a matter, in the first instance, for the breeder involved and his private veterinary practitioner. With regard to dog welfare regulation, the position is that my Department is drafting an Animal Health and Welfare Bill which aims to update existing legislation in the area of health and welfare to ensure that the welfare of all animals, including non-farm animals, is properly protected. My Department has no direct responsibility in regulating dog-breeding establishments.