Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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1175. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the use of poisons for the killing of cats; if he will take measures to prevent this practice (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1039/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 provides that where poison is to be used, it may not be used to poison a protected animal and when used, there are strict controls on the manner of its application, so as to ensure protection of protected animals in particular.

Section 12 of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 sets out the principles which seek to protect all animals from cruelty - requiring the avoidance of any unnecessary suffering and the minimisation of suffering.

It is understood that operators dealing with the removal of feral cats generally seek to capture and use humane injection where such a course of action is deemed necessary, taking account of the particular circumstances and the age and condition of the animals. This approach accords with the principles set out in section 12.

The practice of trap/neuter and release (TNR) is a well recognised way of dealing with feral cat problems. It is also noteworthy that certain animal rescues take in feral kittens, from operators following their removal, for re-homing where domestication is feasible.

I welcome the interest and involvement of animal welfare groups in seeking to resolve this situation as they can bring an important and valuable range of experience.