Press Release: DAFM
This public consultation opened on 5th January and closed on 16th February 2024.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine would like to thank everyone who responded to this consultation.
Below is a summary of the outcome of this consultation.
A total of 388 submissions were received.
In Support of the Ban (61%)
236 submissions supported the ban.
These included submissions from members of the public, the commercial and public sectors, animal welfare charities, advocacy groups, veterinary representatives and professionals working with dogs.
Submissions in support of the ban included such factors as the negative impact on animal welfare resulting from use of such devices and scientific evidence supporting the use of alternative methods to manage behaviour that do not negatively impact the welfare of the dog.
Not in Support of the Ban (39%)
152 submissions were received not in support of the ban.
These included submissions from members of the public, animal welfare charities, advocacy groups, the farming, commercial and public sectors, veterinary representatives and professionals working with dogs.
Submissions not in support of the ban included such factors as increased risk of livestock attacks and the experience of dog owners who have found these devices to be effective when used correctly.
Outcome of Public Consultation
On May 7th, 2024, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D, announced his intention to ban the use of electronic shock collars operated by a hand-held remote control on dogs and cats. In order to address points submitted during the public consultation, this Regulation will provide for those currently using one of these shock collars to register their dog’s details with the Department and continue to use the collar for the lifetime of that dog. The Regulation will also provide for exemptions allowing use of these devices in deaf dogs. Further details can be found here: gov – McConalogue announces decision to ban the use of remotely-controlled electronic shock collars on dogs and cats (www.gov.ie).
