Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 371: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, further to Parliamentary Question No. 189 of 18 June 2009, when he intends to publish the Animal Health and Welfare Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47163/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Drafting of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill, which gives effect to commitments in the area of animal health and welfare contained in the Programme for Government and the renewed Programme for Government is ongoing in my Department. The legislation will amend and consolidate previous legislation in the area of animal health, particularly to reflect the changed disease status of our animals and will update existing legislation, to ensure that the welfare of all animals, including non-farm animals, is properly protected and penalties for offenders are increased significantly. The proposed legislation will also provide for the consolidation of responsibility for the welfare of all animals within my Department. Drafting of the bill is now continuing taking account of the comments received following the consultation process initiated on the draft Bill, together with the animal welfare commitments re-affirmed in the renewed Programme for Government.