COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, June 08, 2026

QUESTION NO. 13

QUESTION: Councillor D. McManus

To ask the Chief Executive if SDCC has authorised officers with statutory powers under the Animal Health & Welfare Act 2013 which would permit animals to be seized on welfare grounds?

REPLY:

Under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, the local authority has appointed authorised officers who are vested with statutory powers under the Act. These powers include the investigation of animal welfare complaints, the inspection of animals and premises, the requiring of information and documentation and, where necessary, the taking of such action as is permitted under the Act to safeguard animal welfare.

There are currently four Dog Wardens employed by SDCC, two of whom are appointed as authorised officers under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013. This will increase to four on completion of the required onboarding and training processes by the newly appointed Dog Wardens.

Where there are reasonable grounds to believe that an animal’s health or welfare has been compromised, authorised officers may take enforcement action in accordance with the provisions of the Act. This may include the seizure, detention, treatment or disposal of an animal, subject to the safeguards and procedures set out in the legislation.

SDCC also has a veterinary services contract in place to provide for the regular inspection of facilities, including the County Dog Shelter and the Horse Pound. Any issues identified through these inspections are brought to the attention of the Council and addressed as a matter of priority. Follow-up inspections are undertaken by the veterinary practitioner where required.

In the exercise of its functions under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, SDCC works closely with relevant agencies, including the NSPCA, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and An Garda Síochána, as appropriate, particularly in cases where a multi-agency response is required.