Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein)
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1537. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has acted on the concerns submitted to his office by an individual (details supplied) regarding numerous websites that have listed dogs for sale or adoption, in contravention of the Animal Health and Welfare (Sale or supply of pet animals) Regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12430/23]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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My Department cannot comment on individual cases but investigates every complaint made and works to achieve full compliance with the regulations

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 with the Department of Rural and Community Development.