Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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173. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on a matter (details supplied) with regard to microchipping dogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15675/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The key concern underpinning microchipping arrangements is to ensure that dogs are identified and can be quickly reunited with their owners if they become lost. A dog microchip has limited functionality due its small size and, since it contains no internal power source, it cannot, on its own, lead to the reunification of a stray dog with its owner unless the 15 digit number is recorded on a database that can be easily located. Likewise, the owner of a dog involved in killing sheep cannot be traced unless a robust microchipping system is in place. A number of databases are operational in Ireland and I am satisfied that there is adequate competition in the market place in Ireland. However, my Department is currently reviewing the legislation relating to dog microchipping.