Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Independent)
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428. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans to introduce legislation that would ensure the control of hunting dogs based on a case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9660/14]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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As Minister, I have responsibilities under the Wildlife Acts relating to the conservation of certain protected species, which include the granting of licences for the hunting of such species. I am aware that drag hunting, which is the activity identified by the Deputy in this case, and involves the following by a pack of hounds of a scent which has been laid or dragged over a course, is practiced in certain areas of the country. However, as this practice does not involve the hunting of wild birds or wild animals, the provisions of the Wildlife Acts do not apply.

There are no proposals to change the current position. I understand that an identical Question has been submitted to the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government who has responsibility for the Control of Dogs legislation.