Eoin Ó Broin (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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1531. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to outline the role and powers regarding horses of animal health and welfare liaison inspectors nominated in Garda divisions; if specific statistics are recorded for their work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45298/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that Animal Health and Welfare Liaison Inspectors are nominated in each Garda Division. They maintain contact details of veterinary surgeons employed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine who may be called upon to assist members of An Garda Síochána in the discharge of their duties under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

Members of An Garda Síochána have a range of powers in relation to animal welfare concerns. In particular, the following Acts, together with relevant local bye-laws, provide powers to search with or without warrant, to seize animals and to arrest individuals in contravention of the legislation:

• Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013
• Control of Horses Act 1996
• Control of Dogs Act 1986