Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 192: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will sponsor another advertising campaign regarding effective control of dogs to prevent attacks on livestock. [17122/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the problems that can be caused by dog attacks on livestock, in particular attacks on flocks of sheep during lambing season. My Department has recently undertaken a campaign, in association with Comhairle na Tuaithe (the Countryside Council), to raise awareness amongst dog owners who take part in recreation activities in the countryside. There was a specific focus on the vulnerability of sheep flocks at this time and, overall, the campaign stressed the need to avoid disturbing farm animals and wildlife. These are, in fact, key principles of the "Leave No Trace" programme that my Department promotes.

Along with my colleagues, the Minister and Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, I will continue to highlight the issue of dog control in the prevention of attacks on livestock. However, I have no plans currently to sponsor an advertising campaign in the matter.