Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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670. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development his plans to add a breed to the list of restricted breeds under dog control legislation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10034/18]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The Control of Dogs Acts 1986 to 2010 set out a range of requirements for all dog owners or any other person in charge of a dog. The Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 set out further requirements that owners of specific breeds of dogs have to follow, namely that such dogs must be muzzled and led, on a sufficiently strong leash or chain not exceeding 2 metres in length, by a competent person over 16 years of age when in a public place. 

I am aware that representations have been made expressing concerns regarding the overall approach to the regulation of restricted breeds. There is also the view that some additional breeds, including the breed referenced by the Deputy, may warrant inclusion on the list of restricted breeds. I have asked my officials to review this matter further in order to ensure an appropriate balanced approach is in place for the protection of society.