COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, February 14, 2011

MOTION NO. 21

MOTION: Councillor W. Lavelle

That this council recommends that the Manager, in accordance with section 3 of Control of Horses Act 1996, designates inspectors from the Dublin SPCA as 'Authorised Officers' as defined by the Act, for the purpose of supporting South Dublin County Council in meeting it's responsibilities under the Act and to allow the DSPCA to more effectively undertake its duties in relation to horse welfare. 

REPORT:

The possibility of authorisation of DSPCA staff under the Control of Horses Act has been discussed previously with the DSPCA and the Council has advised that it is something that could be considered. The DSCPA has not to date nominated any of their staff for authorisation.

It must be noted that the powers of authorised officers under the statutory powers available to local authorities tend to be strong and far reaching. In authorising any person to act on behalf of the local authority in the performance of any statutory powers the Manager must be satisfied that such authorisation is appropriate.  The Council is working with the other Dublin Authorities to ensure a unified approach to the full issue of control of horses and therefore is likely to move to a position of granting such authorisation subject to conditions which can be negotiated directly with the DSPCA.