Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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153. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is satisfied that current oversight mechanisms for dog breeding establishments are adequate to ensure compliance with welfare standards, in light of the recent increase in reported animal cruelty cases; if he will outline plans to strengthen enforcement and penalties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65979/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department has lead policy responsibility within government for animal welfare and takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously. I am committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner.

Earlier this year, responsibility for all policy and legislation in relation to the Control of Dogs Act, 1986 and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act, 2010 transferred to my Department.

In March 2024, the then Minister for Rural and Community Development established the Dog Control Stakeholder Group to review the Control of Dogs Act and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act.

The stakeholder group’s remit includes considering the need for legislative change. This requires in-depth analysis and consultation to ensure that amendments are not just robust, fit for purpose and implementable, but that they also deliver the best outcomes for communities.

I am committed to reviewing all legislation relating to dogs, and in this regard will be guided by the recommendations of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group. I expect the group to revert to me with recommendations on the matter in due course.

All reports of alleged animal cruelty or neglect received by my Department are investigated.

My Department and authorised officers appointed under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, including An Garda Síochána, Customs agents, local authorities, and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, undertake appropriate enforcement action, where breaches or shortcomings are identified.

My Department keeps the Act under review in light of key developments in the areas of animal welfare, the law and having regard to the practical lessons learnt from operating the Act.

My Department operates a confidential Animal Welfare Helpline, where members of the public are aware of any cases of suspected abuse or neglect, they can contact my Department's animal welfare helpline on:

Helpline Phone No: 01 607 2379

Email address - animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie