Dundalk TD raised sheep attacks by dogs in Leinster House

The issue of sheep attacks by dogs, particularly during lambing season, has been raised by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú in Leinster House recently.

The Sinn Féin TD said the issue had been discussed with him by his colleague Cllr. Antóin Watters and by many farmers, particularly in relation to the commonage on the Cooley Mountains.

He said that Louth County Council, the dog wardens and ‘even An Garda Síochána are attempting to ensure that people understand the responsibilities of dog owners’.

He said: “We need to look at the legislation that underpins it. I am not entirely sure what "effectual control" of the dog means.

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“If everyone did the right thing, we probably would not need half the rules, but this is a very specific issue.”

He said he had spoken to a farmer earlier that day, Tom, who had said that “sometimes when large dogs are on leads, the leads could be 25 ft long so there is no chance of controlling them”.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: “We do need to look at this. I know the difficulties with enforcement.

“Tom also spoke about the fact that at times people are involved in other outdoor pursuits, possibly involving motor bikes and quads.

“There must be engagement with those who are involved in all these sorts of activities.

“We need responsibility and good manners. People are talking about the possibility of by-laws, but we must consider legislative pieces also.”

Deputy Ó Murchú said this week that he has submitted an oral Parliamentary Question to the Minister for Agriculture seeking an update as to how the issue is being progressed.