Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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166. To ask the Minister for Health if she will outline which authority is responsible for enforcing the provisions of the Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act 1919; the measures in place to ensure that property owners comply with their legal obligation to control or destroy rats on their premises; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57437/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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The Health Service Executive (HSE) National Environmental Health Service is responsible for enforcing the provisions of the Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act 1919. Environmental Health Officers as authorised officers under the Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act 1919, investigate complaints regarding rodents as they arise and take appropriate action. Measures may include verbal or written advice, issuing formal notices and/or legal proceedings as appropriate.

Other Agencies also have responsibility in the investigation of rodent complaints . For example, Local Authorities enforce the Waste Management Act 1996 and Derelict Sites 1990 which can have the effect of addressing food supply and harbourage for rodents. Local Authorities also enforce the Housing Standard Regulations 2019 which include provisions for the control of rodents in rented properties. Uisce Éireann enforces the Water Services Act 2007 and has responsibility for the maintenance of main drains and sewers which can have the effect of controlling the population of rodents.