New Dog Control Stakeholder Group to consider breed restrictions

The possibility of restricting certain dog breeds is to be considered by the new Dog Control Stakeholder Group.

The possibility of restricting certain dog breeds is to be considered by the new Dog Control Stakeholder Group.

It is in line with actions being taken in Northern Ireland and regions across Britain to strengthen policy and legislation around dog control.

Rural and Community Development Minister Heather Humphreys has asked the stakeholders group to examine the issue.

The request followed the appointment by the Minister of former Deputy Garda Commissioner John Twomey as the independent chairperson of the group.

It follows growing concern about dog attacks on livestock and members of the public countrywide.

Beginning later this month, the stakeholder group, which represents a wide range of interests, will meet quarterly.

Minister Humphreys said that as a dog owner herself, and someone from a farming background, she was very conscious of the public concern about dog control.

“We have seen horrendous attacks by dogs on people, including children, in recent months, and the issue of sheep worrying in our countryside continues to be a huge problem for our farmers,” she said.

The Minister said she had taken a series of measures already. These include the trebling of on-the-spot fines for the most serious offences, and the provision of €2m for dog warden services.

“But I do believe we need to take further action, and that’s what this stakeholder group is going to consider,” she said.

The group will consider dog control issues under the policy remit of the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Discussions will focus on immediate improvements within the limitations of the current situation, while also scoping a way forward for longer-term changes and improvements.

Themes include ‘restricted dogs’ legislation, guidance on proper controls, breeding establishment standards and general awareness raising.

“I have spent a lot of time considering how to bring the right voices to the table in a way that supports constructive discussion.

“I am confident that the group members represent a huge range of backgrounds and viewpoints, share the same root desire to see better outcomes for everyone in relation to dog control, and are committed to making lasting improvements in this area.

“Initiatives like this depend on the willingness of these experts to share their knowledge and experience and to work collaboratively for better outcomes,” she said.

The Department of Rural and Community Development is responsible for policy and legislation regarding dog control and breeding establishments.

Under the Control of Dogs Act 1986, local authorities have responsibility for all operational activities including enforcement matters.

They have the power to appoint wardens, provide shelters, seize dogs, impose on-the-spot fines and take court proceedings against owners.

Meanwhile, the Irish Farmers Association, one of the nineteen bodies represented on the stakeholders group, has launched its own 2024 ‘No Dogs Allowed’ campaign.

Francie Gorman, president, said the Government and local authorities continue to ignore the deepening issue of dog attacks on livestock.

He said IFA first launched its ‘No Dogs Allowed’ campaign in 2021, and despite continuous appeals for action, both the Government and local authorities have failed to address the issue.

“The lack of robust enforcement of the legal obligations on dog owners has allowed these attacks to persist and increase across the country, and it is unacceptable.

“Farmers have had enough, and it’s time for decisive action to protect our livestock. We are demanding stronger regulations and stricter enforcement for those who disregard the safety and wellbeing of our livestock immediately,” he said.

IFA Sheep Chair Adrian Gallagher said stronger regulations announced by Minister Humphreys in November were steps in the right direction but did not go far enough to protect livestock from dog attacks.

He said the IFA has consistently called for appropriate sanctions and to develop a single national database identifying dogs and their owners, like that in other jurisdictions.

“The critical issue in the first instance is to have all dogs in the country microchipped, registered to the owner and licensed in order to establish a national database for all dogs and the person responsible for the dog.

“Implementing stronger legislation and sanctions reflective of the damage and trauma these dogs cause on farms has been key to our campaign and would be a significant step in delivering for farmers.

“Stronger regulations and increased sanctions must be implemented to ensure that dog owners understand their responsibilities and the consequences of failing to fulfil them,” he said.

Pointing out that this a critical time as lambing commences, Mr Gallagher warned owners that dogs are not allowed on or near farmland. He urged them to behave responsibly.

“It is also important to remind dog owners that they are fully liable for any damages caused to farmers and their livestock and dogs found on our lands can be shot,” he said, adding that the IFA will participate in a new stakeholder group.