Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the structure of Units and distribution of members distributed throughout the State. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is no active animal welfare unit within An Garda Síochána. I am further informed that An Garda Síochána is compliant with the Animal Welfare Act 2013 and associated Statutory Instruments 106 of 2014 and 520 of 2014, and members have multiple powers in relation to animal welfare concerns.

The following Acts and local bye-laws enable Gardaí to search with or without warrant, to seize animals and arrest individuals in contravention of the Acts:

1. Animal Health and Welfare Act, 2013

2. Control of Horses Act, 1996

3. Control of Dogs Act, 1986.

There is ongoing liaison between Animal Health & Welfare Liaison Inspectors who are nominated in Garda Divisions, the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA), and veterinary surgeons employed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine who may be called upon to assist members of An Garda Síochána in their duties. If seizing an animal, the local authority can provide members with contacts for horse pounds and dog wardens. Local animal charities are also eager to assist Gardaí when requested.

The Government is very conscious of the special place that animals hold in people’s lives. I can assure you that An Garda Síochána takes animal welfare matters very seriously and has conducted several important actions against those responsible. Gardaí have also disseminated information through the national Crime Prevention Officer Network regarding keeping animals secure and preventing these forms of theft. The Garda National Crime Prevention Unit's advice on pet safety, which is in line with the advice from animal welfare groups and animal insurance companies about keeping animals safe, can be viewed on the Garda website.