Devil dog owners are to be hit with significant new on the spot fines for failing to control their animals.
And the Government is also to give local authorities the money to increase the number of dog wardens nationwide.
The moves were announced by Rural Affairs Minister Heather Humphreys in the Dail following the recent spate of attacks on children and livestock in the Irish countryside.
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The recommendations were made in a top level report that has now been approved by the Cabinet. She said:” I am totally against dogs that are bred to fight and so on. “That is completely cruel and wrong.
“It is my intention to significantly increase the fines regarding dogs which are not in effectual control and therefore at risk .
“The report also proposed increasing the number of local authority dog wardens nationally.
“The Presa Canario is to be added to the list of restricted breeds for which regulations are being drafted with substantial fines.
“This action is necessary to ensure increased enforcement of penalties and act as a deterrent to irresponsible dog ownership.
“There is nothing worse for farmers than having sheep or livestock savaged by dogs.
“Dog owners are required to keep their dogs under effectual control at all times.It is very apparent when a dog is not under control. We want to encourage responsible dog ownership.”
She felt some dog owners needed training as much as their dogs. The Minister said: “ sometimes the training means training the dog owners . They would want to be under control sometimes too.
“If they are treated well dogs are a wonderful companion for anybody .
“However not to take care of dogs and let them out of control and to allow them to worry sheep or chase after livestock is irresponsible.”
The whole country was shocked by the pitbull attack late last year on 10 year old Aleandro Mizsan from Enniscorthy, Co Wexford which left his face badly damaged.
The child was in hospital for weeks on end and only got home last January.
The brave youngster is making a full recovery after his horrific ordeal and went back to school earlier this month.
There have also been reported sheep attacks all over the country but especially around the Cooley area of Co Louth, a popular walking and tourist destination.
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