Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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489. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the number of illegal puppy farms believed to be operating here; the steps being taken to close them down; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31613/13]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The regulation of dog breeding establishments around the country is a matter for local authorities, and, since I commenced the Dog Breeding Establishment Act 2010 on 1 January 2012, a strong regulatory framework now exists for local authorities to undertake this work.

Statistics in relation to the implementation by local authorities since 2012 of these provisions, and in relation to other dog control activities, are published on my Department's website at .

The Dog Breeding Establishment Act 2010 provides that all dog breeding establishments are required to register with the relevant local authority, pay a registration fee and meet a minimum set of veterinary, welfare and other standards.