Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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111. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of his plans to target the sale and distribution of animals through illicit puppy farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53083/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy may be aware that responsibility for Dog Breeding Establishments lies with Department of Rural and Community Development as provided for by the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010.

An establishment keeping six or more bitches of more than six months of age capable of being used for breeding purposes falls within the scope of the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. Local Authorities have responsibility for registration, inspection and regulation of dog breeding establishments, including enforcement activities.

Link:gov.ie - Department of Rural and Community Development(www.gov.ie)

In relation to the sale of pets, concern for the safety and welfare of pet animals was one of the primary reasons behind the introduction by my Department of the Animal Health and Welfare (Sale or Supply of Pet Animals) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 681/2019).

These Regulations put into law certain requirements for sellers and suppliers of pet animals, including the minimum age for the sale of certain mammals; record-keeping; registration with the Department; and the provision of specific information about the pet in advertisements. The Regulations were welcomed by welfare organisations and are a support to those thinking of purchasing pet animals.

Under these regulations, anyone who sells or supplies six or more pet animals in a year must register with my Department. (Dog Breeding Establishments are excluded from this requirement under these regulations as they are already subject to registration).

The Department participates in the Irish Pet Advertising Advisory Group (IPAAG), a group of animal welfare organisations, veterinary professionals and advertising platforms that address issues in relation to advertising pet animals and engages with advertising platforms both through that group and bilaterally.

A traceability and verification system has been developed by a website which advertises dogs in collaboration with a microchipping company. I would encourage all websites to adopt similar verification systems.

Any evidence of animal cruelty or neglect of an animal’s welfare should be brought to the attention of my Department by calling the animal welfare helpline on 01 6072379 or by emailing animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie. Any case will be investigated rapidly and thoroughly.