Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 132: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding a matter (details supplied). [10927/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Matters relating to the Wildlife Act are within the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

With regard to the Animal Health and Welfare Bill, the position is that an Animal Health and Welfare Bill which will give effect to commitments in the Programme for Government and the Renewed Programme for Government on issues relating to animal health and welfare is being prepared in my Department. The new legislation will amend and consolidate legislation in the area of animal health, particularly to reflect the changed disease status of our animals. Existing legislation will also be updated to ensure that the welfare of all animals, including non-farm animals is properly protected and that the penalties for offenders are increased significantly. The Bill also provides for the consolidation of responsibility for the welfare of all animals (including non-farm animals) within my Department. I intend to submit the proposed heads of this Bill to the Government at an early date this year.