Fines for irresponsible dog owners to be doubled under new proposals

Recommendations include increasing the fine under the Control of Dogs Act to €5,000 from €2,500 and improving dog traceability and welfare through single centralised database

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue was tasked with carrying out a review of legislation across Government after a young boy was violently assaulted by a pit bull terrier in Wexford late last year. File picture

Fines imposed on owners who don't control their dogs are to double to €5,000 under new proposals aimed at protecting the public.

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue is bringing a report to Cabinet on Tuesday which also recommends that an extra 40 dog wardens be recruited across the country.