Written answers

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Animal Welfare

Photo of Paul MurphyPaul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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1765. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to a reported breach of the Animal Health and Welfare Regulations 2019 (details supplied); and if he will ensure that an investigation is carried out in relation to same. [63394/22]

Photo of Charlie McConalogueCharlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, I cannot comment on individual cases. Any evidence of specific cases 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.

At the request of the Tánaiste, I am leading an interdepartmental review, examining current legislation, enforcement and policy in relation to dogs. To that end I am working closely with colleagues in the Department of Rural & Community Development and the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

Responsibility for Dog Breeding Establishments lies with Department of Rural and Community Development as provided for by the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010.

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).

My 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 welcome this measure which provides additional reassurance to people purchasing dogs.

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