Extra powers will protect farms and communities from dangerous dogs

New Government funding will increase number of dog wardens and impose tougher fines for offences

Statistics collated by the Irish Farmers Association have indicated the number of sheep injured and killed by roaming dogs could be 3,000 to 4,000 a year.

A crackdown on marauding and dangerous dogs is imminent after the Government announced further funding for local authorities to support warden services from 2025.

The move follows increased calls for action after a series of shocking dog attacks on people and livestock across the State in recent years.