Senator calls for new animal welfare bill

Fine Gael Senator Maurice Cummins has called for proper regulations to be put in place to deal with puppy farms operating throughout the country.

"Some dog breeders have excellent facilities for their animals but others, as we have witnessed recently, keep their young animals in absolutely appalling conditions," said Sen. Cummins.

"The legislation dealing with conditions such as proper heat, ventilation and cleanliness of such establishments dates beck to 1911 and bears no relevance to present day requirements.

"I am calling once again on the Minister for the Environment to take immediate action on this issue to ensure that more animals are not destroyed because of lack of regulations and laws, in this whole area.

"It is time for a proper Animal Welfare Bill to be introduced as a matter of urgency."